New trails completed or opening soon

Several trail projects in Cedar Mill are nearing completion or have been substantially completed, according to THPRD spokesman Bob Wayt.

The Bluffs Park: Phase II of implementation of the park’s master plan, which began in 2012, included paving the trail from South Drive through to the children’s play structure. This is a welcome addition to families in the area, greatly improving access to the playgound. The trail project also included landscaping, signage and swales (natural stormwater filtering system).

The finished trail makes the playground much easier to access and more inviting for families in the area to use.

Wayt says, “The trail is open to the public and we've already received positive feedback from users. The project is not officially complete because there are still some minor “punchlist” items to work through. It is over budget and a major factor in that was our efforts to satisfy the neighbors. In a typical trail project, we don't do any plantings, but on this one, we did a lot, and each one of those plants costs money.”

Jordan Woods Natural Area: this project connects Jackie Husen Park on NW Reeves to the Jordan Woods Natural Area and nearby neighborhoods including Lost Park which adjoins it to the north. Paved and gravel paths, a 100-foot boardwalk, and two bridges improve access. Much of the trail will be ADA accessible when it opens. There’s also an overlook for a view of Cedar Mill Creek. Weeds and invasive species are being replaced with native shrubs and plants.

Wayt says, “This project also is nearly complete but will not be opened to the public until a safety issue is resolved (proper handrails for the stairways need to be procured and installed). We don't have an estimate right now how long it will take. We are waiting on the contractor and his subcontractor.”

Restoring the natural areas in this park will be an ongoing project of the Natural Resources department, so look for work party announcements in the future. Blackberries never completely go away! We all look forward to enjoying this lovely reminder of what Cedar Mill was like before the loggers.

Cedar Mill Falls boardwalk: this long-awaited project has been built by Timberland, the developer of the residential area to the east. It is not quite complete, however, and we’ll bring you photos and more information next month.

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