t <br /> (6) Ensuring safe and convenient access to recreation lands and facilities; and <br /> (7) Maintaining, remodeling and upgrading park, recreational and cultural <br /> facilities in order to respond to changing uses as well as attaining and <br /> preserving operational efficiency. <br /> E. Rasor Pazk Background: <br /> Pre -1977: Following Euro-American settlement of the Eugene area and prior to its purchase <br /> as a City Park, the land where Rasor Park now exists was converted from native <br /> upland savannalprairie to agricultural use. As early as the 1930's, air photography <br /> shows orchards occupying the site. <br /> 1977-79: Under the authority of the state's Willamette Greenway acquisition program, the <br /> City of Eugene purchased several parcels along the west bank of the Willamette <br /> River that now comprise Rasor Park. Some of the property was acquired through <br /> imminent domain. These purchases were part of several phases of a larger <br /> Greenway acquisition program dubbed the "West Bank", for which about 15 <br /> separate parcels were purchased between 1974 and 1980 with local and federal <br /> funding. <br /> 1977: A simple concept plan was prepared for the site. At this time the site did not have _ <br /> a separate identity but was considered a part of the West Bank Riverfront Pazk. <br /> The concept plan featured a parking lot off of River Road, trees and a loop path <br /> leading to the river's edge and connecting with a continuous riverbank path. <br /> Late 1970s: By this time, the cherry orchazd had become overgrown with blackberry and was <br /> removed from the site for fire hazard and maintenance reasons. At this time the <br /> pazk assumed a more open, field-like chazacter. <br /> 1989: The 1989 City of Eugene Parks and Recreation Plan included the following <br /> "medium priority proposed action" for the pazk: "Action 32. Rasor Pazk: Develop <br /> 5 acres for play fields." (P.51). No funding was allocated for this action. <br /> 1993-2000: A classic car restoration business located adjacent to the park was granted <br /> permission by the City to hold an annual car show in the pazk (the River Road <br /> Cruise-In). Over the years, the show increased in size and popularity, drawing <br /> increasing numbers of classic cars and car enthusiasts from the River Road <br /> community, Eugene, Springfield and throughout Oregon. The show's sponsor <br /> participated in mowing and maintenance of the park. In response to <br /> environmental concerns and the growth of the event, a 200 foot setback was <br /> recently designated along the river. <br /> <br /> 1996: Plans were prepared for an extensive indoor soccer facility for the park. The <br /> proposal met with opposition from community members and was abandoned. <br /> <br />