Parks & Recreation: Projects

The City Council approved the City's Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan in May, 2002.  This Plan was created to ensure that the livability of Forest Grove is preserved and recreation needs of its residents are addressed.  The Master Plan describes a vision for parks and recreation opportunities for the next ten years and outlines a five-year plan toward achieving the vision. 

Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan (2002)
Community Trails Project

B Street Trail Head and Trail Development

Willow Villa 

Thatcher Park Trail Development Under Construction
 

Community Trails Project

The Community Trails Project represents a major step towards updating the concepts identified in the Parks, Recreation and Open Space Master Plan (2002) and determines the feasibility of building trails in and around our community.  The City Council adopted the Community Trails Master Plan on October 8, 2007.  Results from this plan will direct the future of trail development in Forest Grove.

The Recreation Commission formed the Trails Advisory Committee to study and create a plan that would have a system of community-wide trails and connections to promote a sense of community, build physical connections, serve all ages and abilities, contribute to a strong local economy and establish partnerships.  Ric Balfour and Associates facilitated discussions and compiled input from citizens including:

• Three (3) community meetings that included over 50 citizens;
  
• Six (6) Trails Advisory Committee meetings with staff;
  
• Three (3) presentations before the Recreation Commission;
  
• Utility bill survey responses from 232 citizens;
  
• Numerous meetings with neighbors seeking input; and
  
• Numerous meetings with land owners and developers.

Related Links:

 Community Trails Master Plan

This project was the first major addition to the "Emerald Necklace" since the completion of the Forest Glen Trail in the summer of 2009.  The trail head facilities are located at 16th Avenue near the Waste Management Plant on B Street.  The trail is nearly one mile in length and includes a new bridge over Gales Creek and it connects to the southern bypass trail along Highway 47 south of Forest Grove.  Partners to complete this project have included: Metro, Washington County, the State Park Department, ODOT, and Clean Water Services.  Construction began in January 2010 and the grand opening was held October 14, 2010.