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OFF AND RUNNING

Parks And Recreation Sets The Pace

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Since it’s official debut in 2020, the City’s Parks and Recreation department has been growing its programs and working to expand spaces for the community to play, learn, and grow.

With voter approval in the recent November 2022 election, parks maintenance and recreation programs continue to be fully funded through the Happy Valley Parks Levy. Revenue from this levy helps protect and maintain amenities like fields, playgrounds, trails, and picnic shelters, and provides funding for things like new parks, recreational equipment, community events, and youth and adult activities. The Parks Levy, which is voted on by residents every five years, plays an important role as it serves to connect our community with nature and promote opportunities for a variety of individual and social experiences.

As the needs of the community grow and change, so does technology and materials for various park amenities, signs, and even the accessibility options of natural areas. A perfect example of this is the more inclusive and weather resistant playground equipment recently installed throughout Happy Valley Park and Village Green Park. These new structures offer children and families safer and more conducive areas for play, complete with rubberized surfacing and equipment that better supports varying skillsets. Coming later this year, a new boardwalk, walking path, and bridge crossing is slated for Mt. Scott Creek Trail. This popular area connecting several neighborhoods will boast increased opportunities for casual strolls and trail runs.

Engaging Community

Between community events and programs, Parks and Recreation has made bringing people together a priority. A natural extension of this effort is the commitment to creating spaces and experiences that are inclusive and reflective of the community. By partnering with programs, many of which are local businesses, there have been more recreation options than ever for people to choose from. Even the RecMobile, which has shown to provide in-the-moment fun illustrates this point. Whether it be a summer activity, neighborhood block party, or pop-up event like the City’s International Day of Happiness celebrations, meeting community where it is gives residents immediate access to their interests.

Off The Beaten Path

Taking field trips to a new level, Happy Valley Parks and Recreation organizes activities that encourage residents and visitors alike to set their sights on some of the wonders of nearby attractions. Participants have hiked the Pacific Crest Trail and Silver Falls, visited the Evergreen Aviation and Space Museum, and even enjoyed an afternoon in Oregon’s beautiful wine country. There is always something to explore when you add the convenience of Parks and Rec coordinating the logistics. All you have to do is show up!

Be Part Of The Fun

Interested in teaching a class for Happy Valley Parks and Recreation? Know of a skilled instructor with talents to share? Maybe your business is an untapped resource for a class or certification that our community could benefit from. Whether you have an expertise in fitness, arts and crafts, or a relevant topic of study, we want to hear from you. The Parks and Recreation Department is dedicated to building strong families and community through recreational opportunities. We believe that the benefits of participating in recreational programs, classes, and events are the foundation of our City’s culture. Contact our Parks and Recreation Manager, Stephani Hern at stephanih@happyvalleyor.gov today!

LET’S CONNECT!

Want to stay in the know about Parks and Recreation happenings? Be sure to check out www.happyvalleyor. gov/parks. There, you will find the latest information related to notifications options, activities and class offerings, as well as a helpful library of recreational resources that you can access at your leisure. You can even sign up for programs or make a facility reservation through our ACTIVENet registration portal where you can conveniently access rentals, activities, classes and more anywhere, anytime.

As Happy Valley’s Parks and Recreation programming continues to grow, you’ll find a variety of opportunities for everyone in your family.

Responding To Those In Need

The City is committed to ensuring all community members experience the benefits of Parks and Recreation. The Parks Levy helps fund such integral programs as Meals on Wheels People, and through the Happy Valley Parks and Recreation Foundation, beneficial recreational programming can be extended to community members who otherwise may not have access.

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