Riverfront Playground Reopens in New Location
Construction of the Riverfront Park playground was completed this week, bringing a conclusion to the FEMA-funded restoration project following the massive Umatilla River flooding in 2019 and 2020.
The full project included moving the parking lot and playground to a central location in the park and out of the flood plain and restoring the walking trail in the park, which connects to the nearby Oxbow Trail. The total cost of the project was $250,000, primarily funded by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
“Riverfront Park has been one of the city’s most popular recreational areas because of its view of the Umatilla River, open spaces for play, and 3/4-mile loop path that connects to the city’s walking trail system,” said Brandon Artz, Parks & Recreation Director. “We’re excited to reopen the playground to give families a place to enjoy time outdoors together.”
The two-level “lookout tower” adventure-themed playground to the south of the parking lot includes multiple slides, swings, and climbing options and features a view of the river from the second level.
Riverfront Park, nestled within a protected floodplain, embodies harmony between nature and recreational spaces. Designed in alignment with the floodplain, the park not only safeguards surrounding structures but also offers idyllic waterfront access. The park stands as a shining example of responsible development, demonstrating how floodplains can be transformed into natural retreats that enrich communities and celebrate the wonders of our environment.
With the new configuration of the park, future flooding is not expected to significantly damage the parking lot or playground. Additional parking is available along the side of SW 23rd Street.
Riverfront is one of 15 parks in Hermiston maintained by the Parks & Recreation Department. The city maintains more than 100 acres of recreational land for the enjoyment of the community and has 50 acres planned for future development. Learn more at www.hermiston.or.us/parksrec.
