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1920's. Over 2500 feet of concrete walks, a lighting system, two picnic areas and <br /> eight acres of irrigated lawn are added. <br /> 1952: A proposal to install television stations on the butte is rejected. <br /> 1962: A wooden cross with light bulbs (a replacement for the original, neon-lit cross) <br /> blows down in the Columbus Day storm. <br /> 1960s: The emergency communications towers are built on top of the butte on the site of <br /> the old U of O observatory. <br /> 1963 The Alpha Phi Omega fraternity decides to erect a 51' high concrete cross as a <br /> community service project. Public objection halts progress. However, a large <br /> concrete cross is installed mysteriously overnight on the Butte, and subsequent <br /> public support allows it to be legalized one month after installation. <br /> 1967: The Metropolitan Civic Club is formed to research possible uses for Skinner <br /> Butte. Many ideas were put forth as a result of a city-wide survey, including <br /> tramways, restaurants, high-rise apartments, leveling the butte, keeping vehicles <br /> out, or a possible site for OMSI. Most proposals are abandoned partly due to <br /> disagreement, lack of funding and difficulties with construction on butte. <br /> 1967: The main playground and the octagonal restroom aze constructed. <br /> 1968: The park expands westward with the purchase of land and the subsequent removal <br /> of buildings. One building remains at 169 N. Washington 5t. and is subsequently <br /> occupied by Child Care, Inc., a child care facility for low-income families. <br /> 1970: The zoo closes in the park and the last animals are moved out. <br /> 1971: Lane County presents the City of Eugene with the keys to a new replica of <br /> Skinner's Cabin. Oregon Lewis and Clark Chapters of the DAR donate a plaque <br /> during a community dedication ceremony. <br /> 1973: The Eugene Jaycees start the "Buck for the Butte" promotion to clean up and <br /> enhance the Butte. The City Council approves $5000 for butte improvements to <br /> match the Jaycees' pledge. A master plan proposal is drafted for the top of the <br /> butte and used in subsequent cleanup and restoration efforts. The proposal was to <br /> turn the butte into a passive recreation area with irrigated turf and viewpoints. <br /> 1973: The old concrete reservoir (1906) is removed as a first step in community- <br /> sponsored cleanup operations. <br /> <br /> 1973-1977: The river-front bike path is constructed through the park. <br /> <br />