Leo Adler Memorial Parkway

The Leo Adler Memorial Parkway (LAMP) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit based in Baker City.  LAMP’s purpose is to construct a path and park system through the center of Baker City along the Powder River.  By doing so, LAMP will:

• Offer transportation route alternatives for cyclists and pedestriansby connecting schools, parks and the community;
  
  
• Enhance the beauty and biological health of the while Powder River improving habitat and native vegetation;
  
  
• Serve as a focal point for the community;
  
  
• Provide peaceful recreational opportunities within the city;
  
  
• Provide chances for reflection and enjoyment of nature
  within the city boundaries; and
  
  
• Interpret and showcase the rich history of the Powder River
  as an integral facet of Baker City.
  
  

In 1994, the City of Baker City and LAMP began to develop and construct a bicycle and pedestrian path systemfrom the Geiser-Pollman Park north to Hughes Lane with a spur to the Baker Sports Complex.  This project, known as the Leo Adler Memorial Parkway (Parkway), is one of the most publicly supported and utilized assets in Baker City today.  Construction began in 1999 on Phase I and portions of Phase II.  Since that time, residents of Baker City have taken ownership of the project and consider it a personal – not just a public – asset.

The Parkway is well-used by cyclists and pedestrians on a daily basis.  Through the Downtown Jobs Initiative, a 10-12 foot path will be constructed next to the Powder River between Washington Avenue and the Geiser-Pollman Park.  A connection from the Parkway to the historic district will also be developed.  This will complete Phase II of the Parkway, creating a continuous bike and pedestrian path from Hughes Lane to Bridge Street with “spurs” to the Baker Sports Complex and the historic district.

Central Park and Public Parking

This project will significantly enhance community livability. The park would serve as a center for concerts, exhibits, civic events, the Miner’s Jubilee, arts and crafts fair, a harvest festival, concerts and a wide variety of community and civic events.  The park’s design and central location would create new opportunities for promoting downtown retail sales through many of its events.  It would also provide sitting areas, shaded by trees, in which to relax.  Such a park would greatly enhance the appeal of the downtown and assist in creating a new image for the city, generating a feeling of pride for all of Baker City’s citizens.

Associated with the park would be parking spaces for up to 150 vehicles.  As identified in the Historic Baker City plans and through public comment, there is a need for increased off-street parking downtown.  The final design of the park and parking lot is still to come through the design and engineering process expected to begin in 2006.

Estimated Project Cost:  $1.35 million