Palmer Cove Park was once the site of a large baseball field, a well-loved basketball court, and a makeshift community garden. The park’s lack of comfort, difficulty of access, and low safety were major concerns within this Environmental Justice Neighborhood. However, its vast size and waterfront location in Salem’s densest neighborhood provided incredible potential that the proper design strategy could unlock. We have worked extensively with the community to determine priorities and assess potential program in relation to community needs, flood risk and soil contamination. Phase 1 included ADA upgrades, improvements to the existing basketball court, and new connective paths, native plantings, a waterfront promenade, relocated community gardens, and a family recreation terrace, with Phase 2 adding a multi-use sports field, second basketball court, playground, public art, and enhanced water access and resiliency.