This summer, the Parks and Open Space Division launched a park ambassador pilot program focused on creating a more welcoming user experience in Eugene’s most visited park area – the 700 acre riverfront park system. Eugene’s park ambassadors are providing the public with information around park amenities, recreational activities, and rentals, as well as park rules designed to provide a safe, clean and enjoyable experience for all, such as keeping dogs on leash and restrictions around alcohol consumption. The ambassadors also help provide timely information to park staff about emerging health and safety issues.
The two ambassadors work together Wednesday through Sunday and cover the riverfront corridor from Maurie Jacobs Park to the I-5 Whilamute Passage Bridge, as well as the WJ Skatepark and Urban Plaza. The pilot program began in early June and will run through late September. The program complements the three-year old Park Watch program in the goal of creating a welcoming and safe park environment for park users.
The riverfront park system draws both locals visitors as well as large numbers of tourists from the U.S. and around the world. It features 12-miles of paved path, four miles of running trails, the RiverPlay destination playground, picnic areas and much more. Situated right next to the system is the new WJ Skatepark + Urban Plaza, which draws all ages and offers a variety of outdoor sports.