Grayson receives Radke Award for decades of park advocacy
CONTRA COSTA COUNTY, CA (Apr. 28, 2025) — State Senator Tim Grayson received the 2024 Radke Championing Advocacy Award this month from the East Bay Regional Park District. The ceremony took place at Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50, near the proposed site for the park’s first public access point in Concord.
The Park District recognized Grayson for his longstanding support, dating back to his time on the Concord City Council and in the California State Assembly. His contributions include securing $3 million in state funding for the South of Bailey Road Staging Area, which will serve as the first formal entry to the new regional park.
Grayson also authored AB 2091, a Park District-sponsored bill that permits public access to existing roads and trails. The Legislature passed the bill unanimously, and it was signed into law earlier this year.
“Tim Grayson has been a great champion and supporter of the East Bay Regional Park District,” said Park District Board President John Mercurio. “This award recognizes his many years of advocacy.”
Port Chicago disaster
The new park honors the 50 Black sailors who were convicted of mutiny following the deadly Port Chicago explosion in 1944, the worst home front disaster of World War II. Last year, the federal government exonerated those sailors.
“Continuing to tell the history at Thurgood Marshall Regional Park is of special importance,” said Park District General Manager Sabrina Landreth. “Senator Grayson’s work to create the first public access point to this new park shows his dedication to the parks, the community, and the past.”
The South of Bailey Road site will include ADA-accessible, all-gender restrooms, bike racks, and educational displays that explore the civil rights and labor history associated with the Port Chicago disaster. It will also highlight the natural and recreational aspects of the land.
Commitment to community
Grayson expressed gratitude for the honor and reaffirmed his commitment to the community.
“Minimizing wildfire risk and expanding access to parks like Thurgood Marshall Regional Park are deeply important to this region,” he said. “I look forward to supporting these efforts as a state senator.”
The Park District gives the Radke Award annually to individuals who advance state or federal support for its mission. It is named for the late Ted Radke, the longest-serving board member in the Park District’s 91-year history.