Amazon Creek restoration detour rescheduled for Aug. 20

from Eugene Public Works and staff reports

Restoration work on Amazon Creek near South Eugene High School will close the creekside path between 19th Avenue and 24th Avenue from Aug. 20 through early September, rather than starting this week as initially announced by the city.

After announcing that the path would close the week of July 22, the city said the closure would instead start Aug. 20.

At that time, Amazon Path users will be able to follow a signed detour around the project area. The detour will include a temporary path installed on the east side of Amazon Parkway up to the new Kidsports facility, where path users will cross the street to continue along the sidewalk. People biking can use the path detour or use the existing bike lanes on Amazon Parkway.

Access to Amazon Park, including the two main volleyball courts, will remain open via the parking lots and side paths.

The creek restoration project will include removing the 65-year-old concrete channel of Amazon Creek that runs through Amazon Park from 24th to 20th. The natural slope bank of the creek will be restored and replanted with native species, and the footbridge behind the baseball field will be reconstructed.

“Although the path closure and periodic lane closures on Amazon Parkway will be inconvenient for the community, the outcomes of this project will provide a more pleasant and ecologically beneficial creek for all to enjoy,” said Sean Kovensky, Amazon Creek Restoration project manager.

The city of Eugene secured $2.7 million in Federal Emergency Management Agency grant funding for the creek restoration. Additional funding for this project was provided by the 2018 Parks and Recreation Bond, stormwater utility fund, and stormwater system development charges.

While the path is closed in late August and early September, Eugene Parks and Open Space will also renovate two sand volleyball courts. This work will include enlarging the courts, removing the existing sand and adding new washed sand that is specifically recommended for volleyball. Work will also include adding underdrainage connecting to Amazon Creek, perimeter edging, new poles, and new nets.

For more information about Amazon Creek Restoration and crossing safety improvements, see the city website, email project manager Sean Kovensky, or call 541-735-5979. For information about the volleyball court project, email project manager Rex Redmon or call 541-682-4873.

Image (courtesy city of Eugene): Drone photo of Amazon Creek, the creekside path, and recreation facilities near South Eugene High school. Market of Choice Field at Civic Park is visible in the upper left.

UPDATE (July 22, 2024, 2:50 p.m.): Eugene Public Works announced that the closure date would be rescheduled to Aug. 20, 2024.