Back-to-back open houses were held last week to begin the community conversation over the future of the Westside Trail. When complete, the trail will be a car-free connection to rivers, parks, cities and people in Washington and Multnomah counties.
The open houses, on May 30 and 31, attracted more than 140 participants eager to help shape the trail’s alignment. Metro councilors Kathryn Harrington and Carl Hosticka welcomed attendees and shared their excitement about the future trail during a brief presentation.
Participants talked with project staff and members from the project advisory committee and marked up maps with ideas about where the trail could travel. Those unable to attend the events can learn about the project and share their ideas through an online questionnaire at www.oregonmetro.gov/westsidetrail. Online comments will be accepted through June 15. Metro will host a second round of open houses this fall to get community feedback on updated trail options.
Planning the Westside Trail
Metro is working with residents, cities and counties, the Tualatin Hills Park and Recreation District and community organizations to create a vision for an uninterrupted path for people to travel to work, shopping, schools and nature. Once complete the trail will offer a 25-mile north-south route from the Willamette River near Forest Park to Tigard, King City and the Tualatin River.