Anna & Abby’s Yard

Anna & Abby’s Yard is a triumphant expression of the power of love and community over tragedy.

Inspired by the lives of two sisters—Anna Dieter-Eckerdt and Abby Robinson—the Yard is an open, natural play area that is fully accessible and inclusive for children and adults of all abilities. It honors the girls, who went to heaven after a hit-and-run accident outside their home.

Anna and Abby’s mother, Susan Dieter-Robinson, helped set the guiding vision for a place where the joy her daughters experienced through play and interaction could be shared. We brought in the nonprofit Harper’s Playground, which collaborated with the City, the family and the community to raise the funds for the Yard’s $1.2-million construction cost.

Anna & Abby’s Yard is now safe and welcoming for all visitors, providing high-quality play activities and outdoor exploration that strengthen children’s physical, cognitive, social and emotional skills. One-of-a-kind play elements crafted from a 180-foot redwood tree add wonder and a sense of scale. More importantly, Anna & Abby’s Yard is a magical, all-embracing space that celebrates community and cohesion—and two little girls who loved to play.