Admin Order 58-02-04 - Laserfiche WebLink

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(6) Ensuring safe and convenient access to recreation lands and facilities; and (7) Maintaining, remodeling and upgrading park, recreational and cultural facilities in order to respond to changing uses as well as attaining and preserving operational efficiency. E. Rasor Park Background: Pre -1977: Following Euro-American settlement of the Eugene area and prior to its purchase as a City Park, the land where Rasor Park now exists was converted from native upland savanna/prairie to agricultural use. As early as the 1930's, air photography shows orchards occupying the site. 1977-79: Under the authority of the state's Willamette Greenway acquisition program, the City of Eugene purchased several parcels along the west bank of the Willamette River that now comprise Rasor Park. Some of the property was acquired through imminent domain. These purchases were part of several phases of a larger Greenway acquisition program dubbed the "West Bank", for which about 15 separate parcels were purchased between 1974 and 1980 with local and federal funding. 1977: A simple concept plan was prepared for the site. At this time the site did not have a separate identity but was considered a part of the West Bank Riverfront Park. The concept plan featured a parking lot off of River Road, trees and a loop path leading to the river's edge and connecting with a continuous riverbank path. Late 1970s: By this time, the cherry orchard had become overgrown with blackberry and was removed from the site for fire hazard and maintenance reasons. At this time the park assumed a more open, field-like character. 1989: The 1989 City of Eugene Parks and Recreation Plan included the following "medium priority proposed action" for the park: "Action 32. Rasor Park: Develop 5 acres for play fields." (P.51). No funding was allocated for this action. 1993-2000: A classic car restoration business located adjacent to the park was granted permission by the City to hold an annual car show in the park (the River Road Cruise-In). Over the years, the show increased in size and popularity, drawing increasing numbers of classic cars and car enthusiasts from the River Road community, Eugene, Springfield and throughout Oregon. The show's sponsor participated in mowing and maintenance of the park. In response to environmental concerns and the growth of the event, a 200 foot setback was recently designated along the river. 1996: Plans were prepared for an extensive indoor soccer facility for the park. The proposal met with opposition from community members and was abandoned.