As the Burlingame Landfill approached its maximum capacity, State and Federal agencies were pressuring the City of Burlingame to issue a closure plan. The city solicited Callander Associates to prepare a site analysis and concept alternatives. A more detailed plan was developed reflecting the desires and concerns of City staff. The total costs of the improvements were estimated at 6.5 million dollars. The Master Plan was adopted by the city and was a critical component of the landfill closure plan approved by the State.

The site offered many unique challenges with sensitive environmental relationships and dramatic elevation changes. Critical relationships between the adjacent ecologically-sensitive Sanchez Creek Marsh and leachate clay cap barrier of the closed landfill was the fundamental consideration in the Burlingame Landfill Closure master plan. Transitional planting provides vegetative cover over the Sanchez Hills Preserve while insuring tideland habitat is maintained in the brackish marsh. Callander Associates worked with biological consultants to strike a balance that includes trails for pedestrians and bicycles, emphasizes the educational aspects of the marsh, and still maintains a sanctuary for the White Egret, the Clapper Rail, and other species. With steep slopes taking up much of the 36-acre site, precise site layout successfully integrates high-priority program elements including: a 260 yard driving range, an Olympic size soccer field, a girl’s softball/little league field, 2 play areas, a large picnic area, and a separate multi-use area.