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

Aquatic Center Parking Expansion

B Street Trail Head and Trail Development

Off Leash Area/Dog Park

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

 B Street Trail Head and Trail Development

This project will be 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 will be built off of 16th Avenue near the Waste Management Plant on B Street.  The trail will be nearly one mile in length and include a new bridge over Gales Creek and then connect to the Southern by-pass 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 is expected to begin in January 2010 with completion in the spring of 2010.

Off Leash Area/Dog Park

This project is currently being designed and construction is expected to begin early spring 2010 with the area to open early next summer.  The area will feature three areas for dogs.  Both small and large dog areas will be built, plus a winter area.  The area will be located at the corner of David Hill and Thatcher Roads in the new Thatcher Park.  This area is being developed as a temporary location in cooperation with the Forest Grove Rural Fire District on property owned by the City and the District.  Citizen participation will be needed to maintain the areas.  For additonal information please contact the Parks and Recreation Director.