The City of Portland is inviting the public to join them on June 11 to celebrate the reopening of the Columbia Children’s Arboretum in Northeast Portland. Portland Parks says the natural area reopened a few weeks ago following upgrades that included making pathways accessible by Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

Portland Commissioner Dan Ryan says “The Columbia Children’s Arboretum is a deeply loved spaced with a rich history.”

The project added park signage at park entry points, along with bicycle and vehicle parking. Invasive plants were removed, and other species were replanted.

“I can’t wait to visit again and see how much easier it is for people of all abilities to get into and around this cherished natural destination,” Commissioner Ryan added.

State Representative Travis Nelson, Commissioner Ryan, former retired Parks commissioner Amanda Fritz, Portland Parks & Rec Director Adena Long, and other community members will celebrate the reopening on June 11, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

“In 1965, I was 23 years old and started teaching math and science at nearby Columbia Elementary School,” notes Betty Campbell, formerly with the Columbia School’s Growth through Research, Organization and Work (GROW) Program. “When I first saw the 28 acres, I could see unlimited educational possibilities for it. For me, these improvements are a dream realized.”