Philippi
Park, a long-time favorite recreation area on the John Day River about 3 miles
southeast of John Day Lock and Dam, will reopen to yearly summer use on May 27,
2016.
The U.S. Army
Corps of Engineers’ Portland District, through a new, long-term partnership
with OPAL Foundation, will turn on the power and water systems, install boat
docks, open the restroom/shower building and return the park to public
use through the 2016 Labor Day weekend. The Corps closed the park prior to
summer 2013 due to recreation
budget reductions.
A boat parade from LePage Park to Philippi Park will
start at 9 a.m., Friday, May 27, followed by a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10
a.m. The public is welcome to tour the
park and enjoy a beach-side BBQ hosted by OPAL Foundation.
“Through positive collaboration with OPAL Foundation, we
worked through details to improve and operate this popular destination park,”
said Kevin Moynahan, John Day-Willow Creek operations project manager.
“Together we now can support
sustainable recreation each summer for local communities and recreating
visitors.”
“We
are excited to be part of opening the park to new generations of visitors,” said
Darrell McSmith of Beaverton and founder of OPAL Foundation. “The Corps and the community have our
commitment to maintain, preserve and enhance recreational opportunities at
Philippi Park.”
OPAL
Foundation, a non-profit organization comprised of individuals and
organizations, will provide financial and material contributions and volunteer support
to open and maintain Philippi Park each year from Memorial Day through
Labor Day weekends. The Corps and OPAL Foundation will conduct a range of activities
and projects that support recreational opportunities and protect and preserve
the archeological, natural, cultural and environmental features at the park.
Philippi
Park is accessible only by boat and is located approximately 3 miles up the
John Day River from its confluence with the Columbia. Parking and boat launch facilities are
available at LePage Park. For a
list of Philippi Park amenities, including camping and fishing, and information
on other recreation opportunities in the vicinity of John Day Dam, visit http://www.nwp.usace.army.mil/Locations/ColumbiaRiver/JohnDay.aspx. Learn about Opal Foundation at www.opal-foundation.org.