March 15, 2011

Alert Portlanders are the eyes and ears of our parks system, often knowing about problems before we do. Last year, Stephen Gentner noticed that the views from iconic Council Crest Park had been compromised by tree growth in the view corridors.

He contacted our office, and we're proud to report that the views in Council Crest Park are back in top form. We've also established a roadmap for maintaining our important scenic viewpoints without needless red tape.

Thanks to Jim Blackwood on our staff and City Forester Dave McAllister and his team at PP&R for their great work creatively solving this persistent problem.

Stephen Gentner wrote to the Oregonian, "Now that the view has been restored to Council Crest - northeast and west views alike - the park is alive once more."

As Spring approaches, we encourage you to take a trip to Council Crest Park and enjoy the view for yourself!

"The City's IOU for viewpoints" The Oregonian

"Trees and Public Views" Mike Houck's letter to the editor

Thanks to flickr user Steve Longus for the great photo