From the Editor: Falling in Love with the Willamette River
Briefly

The article reflects on the author's memories of Cathedral Park in Portland and its transformation over the years. Initially discouraged by littered shores, the author returns to find a revitalized beach and new swimming access, thanks to community efforts that removed 125 tons of debris. The enhanced space now serves as a welcoming spot for residents and visitors, symbolizing the power of collective action and the importance of local connections. The author connects these improvements to broader themes of community investment, active engagement, and the enjoyment of natural spaces.
I marveled at the clear beach, the ritzy new dock lined with ladders. Volunteers had cleared the shore over the years, removing 125 tons of strewn concrete in 2023 alone.
It was a potent reminder of what it means to invest in your community-this neighborhood now has a barrier-free swimming hole near one of the city's most beautiful bridges.
Read at Portland Monthly
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