Path closes for Amazon Creek restoration; new ‘win-win’ detour suggested by contractor

from Eugene Public Works and staff reports

The popular Amazon creekside path in South Eugene closed Aug. 27 between 19th Avenue and 24th Avenue. The closure will allow crews to remove the old concrete channel and to reconstruct a meandering Amazon Creek.

The path is expected to reopen in early October.

Path users can follow a signed detour to a temporary path along the east side of Amazon Parkway, then cross at Kidsports to continue along the sidewalk on the west side.

Original plans called for the northbound lane of Amazon Parkway to be closed to vehicles, and reserved for pedestrians and bicyclists. The temporary path was suggested by the contractor, according to a spokesperson for the city.

“It was a mutually beneficial proposal,” said Kathy Eva, explaining that the temporary path behind the curb kept the road open for construction vehicles.

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

The creek restoration project includes removing the 65-year-old concrete channel, restoring the natural slope bank of the creek, and replanting with native species. The footbridge to the Axe baseball field will also be reconstructed south of 20th Avenue.

“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 from the 2018 Parks and Recreation Bond, stormwater utility fund and stormwater system development charges.

While the path is closed, 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 volleyball-specific sand. Work will also include adding underdrainage connecting to the Amazon Creek, perimeter edging, new poles and new nets.

For more, see https://www.eugene-or.gov/5264/Amazon-Park-Renovation-Projects