Riverfront Field Relocation Feasibility Study

Concept design for the Riverfront Recreation Field Relocation project

Project Overview

The Department of Physical Education and Recreation (PE and Rec) commissioned a feasibility study to relocate and enhance the university’s riverfront recreation fields. The concept design addresses limitations of the existing recreation fields and aligns with the Campus Plan’s intent to move the recreation fields further from the river. The concept design and cost estimate developed through this study will inform the viability and timing of a future capital project.

The proposed relocation would create high-quality recreation fields to better support on-campus intramural and club sports. The study includes a range of turf materials and amenities related to the recreation fields. Moving the fields out of the Willamette River Natural Area allows for opportunities for ecological restoration and realigning the South Bank Path to relate more to the river. A small restroom and storage building would better support programming and student use of the fields.

Objectives

Enhance On-Campus Recreation: Provide modern, well-designed recreation fields to support intramural and club sports, improve safety, and enhance the student experience.

Support Restoration of the Willamette River Natural Area (WRNA): Moving existing recreation fields out of the WRNA allows for implementing restoration outlined in the WRNA Landscape Management Plan.

Improve Connectivity and Access: Realign the South Bank Path to integrate with the new field layout, enhancing pedestrian and cyclist experience along the riverfront.