The 550-square foot property is part of the Albertsons supermarket parking lot and has been neglected for years, according to organizers Michael and Buffy Hasley. The group plans to remove trash and scrub bushes, prune the existing tree, plant new landscaping, install new paths to make the area accessible to strollers, and install two benches, a table (that includes a chessboard) and table seating.

Neighborhood volunteers have pledged to do the work, while some professionals will donate their time and other resources for landscaping, installation, plumbing, irrigation and legal assistance.

The new park's total budget is roughly $17,000, the Hasleys say. Some $15,000 has been donated -- $5,000 in cash donations and $10,000 in contributed goods and discounts.

Local business owner Ken Betts, Oakland City Attorney John Russo, the Lakeshore Business Improvement District, a Lakeshore property owner and others have committed to support the project.

Sarah Gronquist and Golden Associates have completed preliminary plans for the site, while Ace Garden Supply staff is consulting on plant selection. Pat Kernighan, chief of staff for City Councilman Danny Wan (District 2-Grand Lake) is assisting the group with regulatory and other issues as they arise. Volunteers Stephen Williams and Sherry Merciari are supervising the garden installation.

Ground-breaking work at the park will start at 9 a.m. Saturday. Volunteers -- with gloves and shovels -- as well as trucks and drivers are needed, the Hasleys say. Future work-parties for the planting and the bench installation will be planned as well.

If interested in volunteering, donating or receiving e-mail updates on the project, call 510-381-7818 or send e-mail to Mhasleyoak@aol.com.