STRONG PARK PATH CLOSURE
RESPONSE FROM TOWN OF CATHLAMET TO OPINION ON STRONG PARK TREE PUBLISHED DECEMBER 5, 2024, BY WAHKIAKUM EAGLE December 9, 2024
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 been maintained 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.
Mayor, David Olson
NOTICE - Concerning Strong Park Paths (See photo of path damage below)
On October 21, 2024, the Town Council unanimously determined that the Town has both the legal right and responsibility to ensure that the pathways in Strong Park are maintained in safe and ADA compliant manner. Following this decision, our Public Works Superintendent conducted an assessment of the lower section of the pathway and found it to be unsafe and hazardous. As a result, the Town has temporarily closed the affected pathways until necessary improvements can be completed to address these safety concerns.
Although this property is owned by the Museum, the specific area in question has been part of the Town’s official park system since the 1990s. Consequently, it is the Town who bears both legal and financial responsibility for any incidents that may occur in regard to the paths. This safety fencing was placed by the Town of Cathlamet and is the property of the Town of Cathlamet. Damage to the fencing will be considered Malicious Mischief, a criminal offense pursuant to Chapter 9A of the Revised Code of Washington. Violators will be referred for prosecution.
Please note that Town staff are unable to provide additional comments or updates regarding this matter at this time. We kindly request that you refrain from engaging with staff in a confrontational manner. While we understand your frustration, staff members are not in a position to address these concerns. Inappropriate, vulgar, or insulting comments directed toward staff will result in you being told to leave our office.
Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.
