GreenWorks Hosts Independence Riverfront Programming Open House

GreenWorks is currently developing an advanced conceptual plan for IWP east of the existing amphitheater. The concept design will include proposed connections to Independence Landing Waterfront Park to the south and integrate with Riverview Park to the West. As part of this effort, the GreenWorks team hosted a series of Open Houses on the topic of potential programming opportunities for Riverview Park. The events, which were hosted at Independence Public Library and St. Patrick Catholic Church, drew around 160 participants and gave the design team an opportunity to connect with community members and leaders, and to kickoff exciting conversations about the future of Riverview Park.

Poet’s Beach Opens Along the Willamette July 13

The City of Portland will officially open Poet’s Beach along the Willamette River next week, located in South Waterfront Park, under the Marquam Bridge. Will Levenson, head of the non-profit Human Access Project, led the effort to change people’s perceptions of the river and encourage recreation along the waterfront. GreenWorks became involved in the Human Access Project in 2012, and we’re honored to be part of making Will’s vision a reality. Poet’s Beach will be staffed with lifeguards seven days a week through Labor Day and will feature amenities, including picnic tables and restrooms. For more information, see the Human Access Project webpage: http://www.humanaccessproject.com/swimming/willamette_river_beaches/poet_s_beach

Bend Whitewater Park (Formerly known as Colorado Dam Safe Passage Project)

The Colorado Avenue Dam improvements are well underway. Photos show the construction of the three channels in the Deschutes River: (1) a safe passage channel for boaters, paddleboarders and tubers, (2) a whitewater surfpark with four wave features and (3) a natural area with enhanced fish and wildlife habitat. The river will also have improved access from a new pedestrian bridge. There will be a gathering to celebrate the whitewater surfpark on May 27th from 6-11pm at the Volcanic Theatre Pub. Check out the Bend Paddle Trail Alliance for more details.

Independence Parks Master Plan

GreenWorks has been working with the City of Independence to update their Parks and Open Space Master Plan. The plan will examine the changing recreational needs of the larger, more diverse population while also incorporating modern recreational trends. The update will also develop a new list of goals and tasks to ensure that the City can provide for the future recreational needs of the community. Two public open houses have been held to engage the community in determining future park and open space needs.