Our E205 initiative has been the driving force behind a number of park improvements in East Portland neighborhoods.

The initiative targets improvements to underserved neighborhoods in East Portland, where 40% of Portland families with children live.  To date, Ed Benedict, Gilbert Primary, Parklane, Ventura, and West Powellhurst parks have all received updates.

Most recently, Lynchwood Park was improved with a half-mile of walking paths, more than an acre of off-leash dog areas, new benches, signage, and a drinking fountain.

Upcoming E205 improvements include Cherry and Glenfair parks with soft-surface walking paths and benches, and the East Portland Community Center and East Holladay Parks with $500,000 worth of play equipment.

Portland Parks & Recreation Director Mike Abbaté echoes the feedback Parks staff has received from neighbors when he acknowledges that these small renovations are "huge quality of life improvement[s]." Having the opportunity to stroll easily through the park, stop for a drink of water, and take a rest under a tree on a bench contributes greatly to the park's appeal and gets neighbors out together, moving around.

E205 Initiative upgrades at Lynchwood Park; last projects wrapping up this fall

Sara Hottman for The Oregonian