Oregon — The Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) announced the completion of four major improvement projects funded through the $50 million state park General Obligation Bonds approved by the Legislature in 2021. The upgrades modernize aging infrastructure at several of Oregon’s most-visited parks, though rising construction costs and declining revenue have forced the agency to pause additional projects.
The completed work includes electrical and sewer improvements at Beverly Beach Campground, expanded restroom and shower facilities and utility upgrades at Nehalem Bay Campground, and a full exterior restoration of the historic Guard House at Fort Stevens. At Silver Falls State Park, last year’s construction of the North Canyon trailhead and parking area eased chronic congestion and added accessible trail access.
More improvements are coming in 2026, with Fort Stevens scheduled to overhaul its campground utilities by May of that year. Additional safety upgrades at Cape Lookout and planned visitor center improvements at Silver Falls are also set to break ground in 2026.
However, OPRD says several remaining GO Bond projects — including planned upgrades at Kam Wah Chung, Smith Rock, Champoeg, and the expansion of the North Gateway campground at Silver Falls — will be placed on hold until funding becomes available. About $15 million in remaining bond revenue will instead be redirected to “higher priority backlog maintenance projects,” including critical repairs to existing utility systems and facilities.
Deputy Director for Field and Community Services Matt Rippee said escalating costs have reshaped what the department can deliver.
“When projects were initially identified in 2021, we could not have anticipated the substantial increases in costs of materials, staffing and consultants or the significant reduction in revenue,” Rippee said. “It is vital we focus on projects that will extend the life of existing facilities rather than expanding.”
OPRD is facing a projected $14 million operations budget shortfall this biennium due to declining Lottery revenue, increased expenses, and longstanding structural funding issues. Staff are now reviewing agencywide costs to stabilize future operations.
Despite the challenges, OPRD says it remains committed to advancing essential upgrades and maintaining high-quality visitor experiences.
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