Portland examines ways to upgrade park

Cathedral Park, once a landing site for Lewis and Clark, has become a popular spot for concerts, boating and festivals.

But the park, at the east end of the St. Johns Bridge, is in need of a makeover, according to Portland Parks & Recreation.

On Thursday, designers with Mayer/Reed and Flowing Solutions discussed potential changes to the park. The meeting included a presentation and group discussion, and allowed people the chance to offer feedback on changes to the park.

Mayer/Reed and Flowing Solutions were selected in January from a short list that included Walker Macy and Atlas Landscape Architecture.

The changes to the park will focus on improving river access, maintaining views and managing space for festivals, according to Kathleen Wadden, project manager with Portland Parks & Recreation.

"There are not a lot of places in Portland where you can actually get to the water," said Wadden. At Cathedral Park, she said there should be "a way to get to the water, but also protect the waterfront."

The park has a boat dock, boat ramp, restroom, off-leash dog area, paved paths, picnic tables and an outdoor stage. A rail line bisects the park from north to south.

Cathedral Park is as well known for its proximity to the Willamette River as it is for its views of the St. Johns Bridge, a national landmark that opened in 1931. The park site was acquired by the city in 1968.

The changes will include improving signage to help pedestrians navigate the park's 23 acres. "We're trying to look at a spectrum of choices," Wadden said, noting the multiple uses of the park.

Cathedral Park was designed in the late 1970s and built in 1980. Wadden said Carol Mayer-Reed was one of the original designers.

In addition to serving boaters and park-goers, the park also hosts a jazz festival, weddings and concerts.

Because Portland Parks & Recreation has not selected a preferred option, Wadden said it's too early to know how much the project will cost. She expects Portland Parks & Recreation to make a decision in September. After that, the bureau will have another public meeting to discuss the preferred option.

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