The Future is Bright for Sorosis Park
Sorosis Park is green once more thanks to a new irrigation system! Photo: Robin Denning
By Cole Goodwin
The Dalles, Ore., June 11, 2024— Just four years after the pine beetle devastation of 2020, Sorosis Park is making a comeback thanks to grants and community fundraising efforts that have paved the way to revitalize the crown jewel of the North Wasco County Parks and Recreation District (NWPRD).
"We asked people what they wanted, and they told us. Slowly but surely, we're making it happen. It was heartbreaking to lose trees, but we're committed to maintaining Sorosis Park as a beautiful and special place,” said Scott Baker, Executive Director of NWPRD.
Put the Scenic Back in Sorosis: Last year, Phase One of the “Put the Scenic Back in Sorosis” project was completed. With over $1.02 million invested in irrigation improvements, including a new pump, tree plantings and bark chips.
Locals also rallied to support the Sorosis Park Replanting Fundraiser Committee, led by Annette Byers to raise $378,000 for tree replanting, improved walking trails, and the construction of an ADA-accessible pavilion. Photo: Cole Goodwin
Here’s a look at what’s in store for Sorosis Park this season:
A Pavilion for All Seasons
Ben and Pete of Schuepbach Builders & Custom Concrete discuss the construction of the new Pavilion. Photo: Cole Goodwin
NWPRD has begun construction of a new pavilion. Designed as a hexagonal structure, this facility will offer beautiful panoramic views of the park, the nearby rose gardens, and Mount Adams, providing a perfect backdrop for community gatherings and private events.
"We saw a need for a sheltered space after we had to cut all those trees that were dying due to pine beetles in 2020,” Baker explained, “People wanted shade.” The pavilion not only addresses the need for shade but also will serve as a reservable shelter with an online booking system to streamline reservations.
"It's about providing a space where people can come together, celebrate, and enjoy nature," said Todd Wheeler, Assistant Director.
Even More Tree Plantings
City of The Dalles Beautification Committee at Thompson Park.
The District is gearing up to wrap up phase 1.5 of the project by doing additional landscaping and tree plantings along Scenic Drive during the first weeks of June.
A New Play Structure
A digital rendering of the new play structure proposal.
Phase two of the project is set to kick off after Labor Day with the replacement of the Treetop play structure made possible by a 60/40 split Oregon State Parks grant. Oregon State Parks will cover 60% of the estimated $700,000 replacement cost and NWPRD will cover the remaining 40% of the cost. The new play structure will feature a swingset, slides climbing nets and walls and a seesaw.
NWPRD plans to preserve the park's history and the legacy of donors who helped build the original Treetop in the process.
"We understand the sentimental value attached to the donor boards on the old structure. That's why we're giving donors the option to retrieve their boards or leave them to be incorporated into the new design," said Baker.
Sweet New Electrical Hook Ups for Events
Phase two of the project will also include upgrades to the park's infrastructure, such as underground utilities and improvements to the parking area, enhancing access and functionality for food carts and event setups.
"We're preparing for future needs by adding features like spider boxes with 50 amp capacity for musical events and to ensure adequate electrical support for food cart vendors," said Baker.
Thanks to a blend of careful planning, community feedback, and innovative thinking, the future of Sorosis Park looks both bright and inclusive, promising a space that all residents of The Dalles can enjoy and be proud of.
Future Fundraisers
A map shows an overview of the Sorosis Park development plan.
"The community has requested $4.5 million worth of improvements and we’re doing everything we can to make that happen. So we're constantly seeking new ways to fund our projects while ensuring we make the best use of every dollar received," said Baker.
Future fundraisers will help make the community’s dream a reality.
Funding these ambitious projects requires creativity and community support. The District plans to hold more fundraisers and apply for grants in the near future in order to fund pathways to the new play structure and ball fields, improved baseball dugouts, sidewalks, additional picnic tables, irrigation that skirts the footprint of the new play structure and covered basketball courts.
For a PDF version of NWPRD’s June newsletter click here.
Put the Scenic Back in Sorosis
Put the Scenic Back in Sorosis by donating today at https://nwprd.org/.
