This place is distinct from others in many ways. One of which is through the variety it has. There’s a beach, playgrounds, and trails all in one place. 

 The history of this space contributes to it today as families remember this spot for its openness and familiarity. Teenagers continue to come here as it is a diverse and accessible area. 

The space can easily promote social interaction and prohibit them at the same time. This can be seen in the playgrounds where teenagers and kids can interact as they play. It can prohibit interaction in places where only a few people at a time can be there (boardwalk, benches, certain trails.)

Anyone can feel welcome here. There are trails for joggers or individuals to walk their dogs. There are also areas with scenery to sit and watch. Someone who may not feel welcome is someone who does not like the outdoors or who doesn’t like activity. 

Teenagers and young adults seem to hold the authority. There are more teenagers and adults seen throughout as there are more activities for them to do rather than families or children. 

The space is completely free to the public. Anyone can enter at any time and don’t have to pay to get in. From time to time there are activities or vendors in the area where costs can vary. 

Social markers don’t exist too much. Typically, families do stay away from small groups and others don’t approach individuals who seem to walk alone. Due to this park being in a middle class neighborhood, the majority of the people who come here are middle class. 

There is surveillance in the park. There are cameras outside of bathrooms and in some posts. Police cruisers are often seen and officers walking around. There aren’t many workers at the park. For the most part everyone is respectful of the area and maintains it clean for others to enjoy it as much as they do. Trash and recycling cans are seen in every corner with doggy bags provided

Personally, before moving to this area, I didn’t know that a place like this could exist. Meaning, I didn’t know a beach and boardwalk can be in the same space as playgrounds. Or crabs can be in the same space a rabbits or squirrels. 

I assumed the people were respectful and proud of this area as it seems to be well maintained.

To research this place, I can go to the library nearby and search using their computers or by reading local articles. I may also ask locals about the history surrounding the park. 

Local businesses influence the information of this place by having pictures of the beach in their walls or by advertising themselves to be in a family neighborhood.