May 2, 2011

More than 100 years ago, the Olmstead brothers laid out a vision for public ownership of important natural areas in Portland. Their recommendations included the purchase of the wooded hills west of the Willamette River. "No use to which this tract of land could be put," they wrote, "would begin to be as sensible or as profitable to the city as that of making it a public park."

Our team at Portland Parks & Recreation is committed to preserving and restoring Portland's amazing natural areas. This morning, Nick was proud to join Commissioner Dan Saltzman, the Bureau of Environmental Services, Governor Roberts of Metro, and the Trust for Public Land to announce the acquisition of nearly 150 acres in Southwest Portland.

The purchase announced today puts a finishing touch on a chain of green spaces extending along Portland's west side from Forest Park to the north all the way to Tryon Creek State Park at the southern border of the city.

There was plenty of private sector interest in the site, but we knew the only way to protect it for future generations was to purchase it ourselves. We'll be working with the community to create a plan for the area that includes ample opportunity for enjoying the space - hiking trails, environmental education programs, and more.

This exciting and important acquisition brings us 146 acres closer to our shared vision of a world-class, regional system of parks, trails, and natural areas.

"Portland Council approves purchase of 146-acre natural area"

Jim Mayer in the Oregonian

"This wildlife corridor will be the envy of every city in America"

KATU

"Portland Parks to acquire 146-acre hillside south of River View Cemetery"

Brad Schmidt, Oregonian

"River View had drawn developer interest"

Andy Giegerich, Portland Business Journal