The Town of Cathlamet respectfully submits these comments in response to the opinion concerning the Strong Park tree which ran in the Wahkiakum Eagle’s December 5, 2024, edition. Strong Park is recognized as a Town Park in the Cathlamet Municipal Code and has beenmaintained by the Town of Cathlamet for over 30 years.
A tree has eroded and buckled the narrow pathways in lower Strong Park, making the pathways hazardous to pedestrians, particularly elders, mobility limited, and families with children, as assessed by the Town’s Public Works Department.
After considering the situation, the Town has temporarily closed the lower portion of Strong Park limited to the area containing the unsafe walkways. This is to prevent accidents for which the Town may be liable, consistent with provisions of the Cathlamet Municipal Code relating to Town Parks and consistent with obligations under the Town’s Liability Insurance Policies. The Town has examined the site and (working with outside experts) substantially completed a state-required cultural survey that has not assessed the tree at the site to have historical or cultural significance;
Nevertheless, the Town is exploring with our engineering firm options that might preserve the tree and allow the Town to install an ADA compliant path. Although the severe slope of lower Strong Park and the presence of the tree create many costs and challenges, the Town will continue to explore options and engage in further public discussion before taking final action on alternatives that are technically and economically feasible.
David C. Olson, Mayor
Town of Cathlamet
Email: david.olson@townofcathlamet.com
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