Area News
River Road Community Organization
FALL 2010
Managing Increasing Urbanization
Conversations seem to be going on at every level of government about the 34,000 people who are anticipated to increase the population in Eugene in the next 20 years. More people will need to be accommodated in the entire Metro region. The Lane County Commissioners are discussing changes to the MetroPlan (which guides governance, land use. and public services ) and TransPlan (which guides the kinds of transportation and transit projects built in the community). Many challenges are ahead as we plan to handle the increasing population even as revenues are expected to decrease. The City of Eugene is holding Envision Eugene meetings for citizens to imagine the city they want to live in by 2030. Three things seem to be true: 'Change is inevitable.' 'If we don't plan for development, others will.' 'Everything is connected to everything else.'
Within this larger context, the River Road Community Organization (RRCO) has been discussing the things we hold dear about our community, the things we would like to change, and how we can manage this change to make the most of our situation. The most recent RRCO newsletter starts the conversation about protecting the Willamette River Greenway and managing traffic on River Road. Our July meeting featured a mile-long walk in the neighborhood with Eugene City Manager Jon Ruiz and River Road Park and Recreation Superintendent Dale Wiegant. We commented to one another about the design of homes and how and whether they fit together in the neighborhood. Some have gone to great effort to employ wise use of land and water.
RRCO is also engaged with the Santa Clara Community Organization (SCCO) to outline ways for our residents to be involved and educated so we can discuss our future together. Some mutual concerns are to preserve and improve River Road Parks and Recreation District, retain our natural stormwater drainage that filters water before it goes in the Willamette River and recharges the water table, protect our large tree canopy, provide an adequate transportation system that also protects the safety of bicyclists and pedestrians, and encourage thoughtful planning for new construction of homes and thriving local businesses to accommodate the needs of an increased population.
We are all concerned about the character of our neighborhood, but most of all, we are concerned about improving the sense of community. Change is a positively energizing force if a community of neighbors is involved in the decision-making process and understands why new projects have been undertaken. We encourage you to join the discussions and share your ideas about what you think would improve our community.
You are invited!
Information at riverroadco.org.
September 11, 2010 – RRCO General Meeting, River Road Annex
9:00 to 11:00 a.m. - Pancake Breakfast 1055 River Road
Please note that this is a change from the normal meeting date and time and will replace the regular monthly meeting.
Bring your friends and neighbors!. Enjoy breakfast together to learn more about each other's concerns and interests. Comment on RRCO's proposed projects and issue areas. We hope to see you there!
October 11, 2010 – RRCO Board Meeting, River Road Annex
November 8, 2010 – RRCO General Meeting – Public transit on River Road (tentative).
December 13, 2010 – RRCO Holiday Dessert Meeting – This is becoming a fun tradition! Bring a dessert to share and be ready to we discuss the ideas and concerns of the neighborhood.
Glen Falconer Swimming Scholarship
The Northwest Legends Foundation, in memory of their friend, Glen Falconer, is pleased to sponsor the Glen Falconer Swimming Scholarship. By funding this scholarship, the Northwest Legends Foundation is striving to provide children with a positive outlet for their energy and endow a proactive program through swimming a life-long activity loved by Glen. For more information, contact Dale Weigandt, 541-688-4052
River Road Park Children's Scholarship Fund
In these tough economic times the Park District is doing everything it
can to ensure that the children in our community can continue to enjoy
recreational activities. If you as an individual, would like to make a
one time contribution to our youth Scholarship fund you can help us make
sure that absolutely no one gets excluded. Call the Park District at 688-4052
and ask for Dale Weigandt for more information.
River Road/Santa Clara Volunteer Library
The library is home to over 14,000 books for patrons of all ages; including books-on-tape. For children the library offers winter and summer reading programs. It's quick and easy to become a member. An annual membership is available at no cost although a $10 donation is suggested. One membership provides library access for the entire family. Located at 105 Oakleigh Lane-behind Goodwill on River Road. Phone: (541) 607-1882.
Hours
Monday . . . 2-5:30p
Tuesday . . . 11a-7p
Wednesday . . . 11a-2p & 5:30-8p
Thursday . . . 10a-2p
Friday . . . Closed
Saturday . . . 10a-2p
Sunday . . . Closed
River Road Park Mission Statement
The mission of the River Road Park and Recreation District is to provide exceptional park and recreation facilities, programs, and services to enhance the livability of the River Road community and the people it serves.
RIVER ROAD PARK AND RECREATION DISTRICT
VALUES AND VISION
1. River Road Park and Recreation District will strive for excellence by setting and achieving high standards in the delivery of quality recreational, instructional, fitness and competitive programs, open space, and park facilities enabling residents and non-residents alike to enrich their lives.
2. River Road Park and Recreation District will remain environmentally conscious, making the decisions that will help protect, maintain and preserve both our natural and developed resources.
3. River Road Park and Recreation District will strive for fiscal accountability by remaining responsible and efficient in ensuring the financial health and stability of the District today and for years to come.
4. River Road Park and Recreation District strives to develop and establish positive relationships, becoming both a friend and partner with the community by fostering an atmosphere and environment of cooperation, trust and resourcefulness with our patrons, coworkers, and other organizations.
5. River Road Park and Recreation District will strive for safety by establishing and promoting a safe and healthy environment for all who either patronize or work in our park or in our facilities.
6. River Road Park and Recreation District will value and demonstrate appreciation for it’s patrons by interacting with individuals in a positive, responsive, considerate and efficient manner.
7. River Road Park and Recreation District will strive to value and demonstrate appreciation for it’s employees by acknowledging the contributions of each employee and volunteer, and recognize that each employee or volunteer is essential.
8. River Road Park and Recreation District will strive to remain all inclusive by minimizing physical, social and/or financial barriers wherever and whenever possible, and remain dedicated to promoting an environment free of discrimination, with regard to race, religion, orientation or any other protected status.