The Dalles Riverfront Connections Pushes Forward

GreenWorks, working closely with KPFF and Nathan Good Architects, was charged with developing a festival area located on a swath of land in between I-84 and the Union Pacific Railroad on the edge of The Dalles' city limits. Comparable in size to approximately three Portland city blocks, this design incorporates a parking lot accommodating 60-65 vehicles, and a covered picnic pavilion, buttressed by restroom and picnic facilities. This focal point forms a strong presence to Union Street as well as a stage to the "great" lawn in which events could be held. A public art feature is proposed to be located on axis with Court Street. All of these elements combined, help to establish a strong connection with the historic downtown to the Columbia River, enhancing community identity, and encouraging economic development.

The Federal Economic Development Administration recently awarded the City of the Dalles a $2 million grant toward a new marine terminal that will complement this project and boost the city's economic growth.  For more on the grant and the current riverfront improvements in The Dalles visit: http://www.oregonlive.com/business/index.ssf/2010/06/new_marine_terminal_in_the_dal.html

The project is pushing forward with gusto. The team is on track to wrap up construction documents for the commercial dock and festival area by the end of August. The project is scheduled to go out to bid on September 1, with construction starting in November.