The Ford’s Pond Community Park project has been awarded three Oregon Parks and Recreation grants totaling over $960,000. These grants are funded by state lottery proceeds and federal revenues from oil/gas leases and fuel taxes.

Through the fundraising and grant writing efforts of the Friends of Ford’s Pond volunteers, over $1.8 million has been raised for improvements at the park!

The city will now be able to complete the perimeter path and add restrooms, picnic shelters, and an inclusive, natural playground. This will add a much-needed playground on the west side of Sutherlin. Construction is expected to be completed in 2022.

The playground will be built for inclusive play, self-discovery, and making friends—without barriers—welcoming to all ages and abilities. Play components will be integrated into the landscape design to complement the natural, open space park.

The playground components are not included in the grant funding. Specific sources for the components will be identified in the design phase. The Friends of Ford’s Pond will be kicking off a capital campaign this spring. Those wishing to make a donation at this time, may donate here.

Current Construction Update

Construction is underway on $760,000 of improvements including: parking, sidewalks, utilities, signage, security lighting, benches, and paving the first half of the perimeter path. This work is scheduled to be completed in early summer 2021.

The city has opened a temporary parking area off Hwy 138W, on the north side of the pond.