By Mary Owen
A two-year project to improve Pioneer Park will move forward if the city of Stayton’s recent grant request is approved.
“The Parks and Recreation board will apply for a Recreation Trails Program grant from the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department to complete phase one upgrades to Pioneer Park,” said Jennifer Russell, administrative assistant speaking for the $550,000 project. Stayton is asking for $300,000 to rehabilitate the west end of the 9-acre city park with restrooms, shelters, a new entryway, turnaround and plaza.
“If the grant is awarded, the city will be required to provide 40 percent in matching funds,” she said. “The $200,000 match will need to come from multiple sources: city parks systems development funds, foundation grants, individual donations, a fundraiser to involve community members and park users.” There will also be in-kind contributions in parks maintenance staff time, contractors, and the public works administrative staff.
The project will greatly enhance the park for Pioneer Park users, city officials agree.
“This project will provide the city with a more visible park facility,” Russell said. “The new restrooms and picnic shelters will bring more users to the park. (It) will provide a gateway to the city’s other parks and trail systems through Wilderness and Riverfront parks.”
Russell said the new entry way and turnaround with a new plaza will give the park a new look, create a clear entry and provide safer pedestrian access for park users.
“Replacement of the restrooms, adding a new shelter and ADA walkways will improved park user experience and make all park facilities accessible to users of all ages,” she said. “We believe the rehabilitation of Pioneer Park will bring more people.”
The Stayton-Sublimity Chamber of Commerce supports the city’s application for the grant, according to Executive Director Kelly Schrieber.
“Stayton is known for its historic Jordan Covered Bridge, and it is considered an icon for the community,” Schrieber wrote supporting the grant. “It … receives high volume of usage for annual events like SummerFest, the Easter Egg Hunt, the Firemen’s Breakfast… The pedestrian footbridge provides a needed entry point into the Jordan Covered Bridge and Wilderness Parks area.”
If the grant is awarded, the parks board will organize a community fundraiser to raise up to $25,000 for the project, Russell said. “The details are yet to be determined, but will allow the community to participate in the beautification of the park.” She added board and city staffers are excited.
“The park is overdue for improvements, and both the city and the Parks board have been working diligently to come up with a plan that will get funded,” she said. For information, contact Russell at 503-769-2919.
