Just four years after the pine beetle devastation of 2020, Sorosis Park is making a comeback thanks to grants and community fundraising efforts that have paved the way to revitalize the crown jewel of the North Wasco County Parks and Recreation District (NWPRD). Here’s a look at what’s in store for Sorosis Park this season including: a new pavilion, play structure, electrical hookups and more!

The Sorosis Park rehabilitation project has hit a new milestone today. The North Wasco County Parks and Recreation District (NWPRD) has successfully secured an Oregon State Parks grant amounting to $420,000, which will cover 60% of the estimated $700,000 replacement cost for the TreeTop playground structure at Sorosis Park. NWPRD will cover the remaining 40% of the cost, meaning the project to replace the TreeTop play structure is now fully funded.

The Put the Scenic Back in Sorosis fundraiser led by Annette Beyers, has successfully raised over $200,000, of their $347,000 fundraising goal. With less than a month left in the fundraiser, the park still needs to raise some $142-$147k to push phase sne of the park's rehabilitation project over the finish line.

The Put the Scenic Back in Sorosis fundraiser aims to raise $347,000 in funds for phase two of the park rehabilitation project which will involve tree plantings, landscaping, the construction of an ADA accessible gazebo/pavilion, and improved walking trails. 

North Wasco County Parks and Recreation Executive Director Scott Baker said he was pleased to report that NWCPRD has installed new irrigation, reseeded the lawn, and completed some tree plantings at Sorosis Park as a part of phase one of the Sorosis rehabilitation project.

Crews are laying the groundwork for a rebirth at Sorosis Park. The next months work intends to mark a green and efficient future for our community’s playground as grass, trees and recreation take a turn for the better.

“The city council unanimously approved the allocation of American Rescue Plan funds for the Sorosis Park Improvement Project ,” said Rich Mays, Mayor of The City of The Dalles, “We think it’s an important project for the community.”

Love Sorosis Park? Changes are coming, so make sure your voice is a part of conversation. North Wasco County Parks and Recreation District survey is seeking public input on replanting, rehabilitation, and changes to Sorosis Park to include in their strategic planning. The survey closes September 8th.