Fire Protection Zone <br />A mowed, 30 ft fire protection strip will be maintained around the perimeter of the park adjacent <br />to private property, which will reduce the risk of an escaped fire. The mowed strip will <br />accommodate new tree plantings where appropriate for screening adjacent properties, as long as <br />the distance between trees allows a large tractor to maintain the area., <br />Sacred Space <br />In the southeast part of the park, an area will be maintained as quiet space for contemplation and <br />relaxation, and where dogs should be discouraged. This area should not encroach into the <br />riparian zone because of the connectivity to the wildlife corridor along the river toward Maurie <br />Jacob Park. Initially, the area will be mowed and surrounded with additional native tree <br />plantings. Options should be left open for perhaps a neighborhood or community project that <br />might define the space more formally, such as a labyrinth or other type of appropriate use that <br />promotes peace and tranquility. <br />Pathways and Circulation <br />A three-tiered circulation system will provide access throughout the park. The bikepath will be <br />relocated approximately 100 ft. westward from its present location along the river, which will <br />allow widening of the river corridor for riparian restoration and river access, and acknowledge <br />presence of the park from the bikepath and encourage its use. An 8 ft. paved path will extend <br />from the staging area on River Road through the heart of the park and connect with the bikepath, <br />providing an opportunity to experience the contrasting mowed lawn area and the unmoved grass <br />and scattered tree area. Finally, mowed paths will meander throughout the savanna-prairie zone, <br />allowing for walking, nature appreciation, and bird watching. These paths will change based on <br />the mowing regime, and will have movable benches at strategic locations. <br />Staging Area <br />Intent of the staging area design is to reconstruct the River Road edge so there is an inviting, <br />fully accessible entry to the community. Gateway enhancements will include an information <br />kiosk and interpretive facilities that instill interest and provide a positive orientation to the <br />values, opportunities, and benefits of the park. Capacity of the parking area will be limited to 10 <br />spaces including parking for persons with disabilities, and a bioswale to collect and filter <br />contaminants. To accommodate the parking area, the existing berm will be moved toward the <br />interior of the park. <br />River Viewing Platform <br />A sensitively designed, unobtrusive, and small-scale viewing platform/interpretive facility will <br />be located at the termination of the pathway at the river, designed at-grade and extending from <br />the top of the bank. Constructed of natural materials, this will be the only location to access the <br />rivers edge, thereby protecting the wildlife habitat and integrity of the riparian forest along the <br />river corridor. <br />Community Gathering Place <br />Near the bikepath intersection, asmall-scale, low, and gently sloping mound will function as a <br />gathering place to accommodate small neighborhood and community groups. Seating will be <br />provided by setting natural stones in the hillside slope, accommodating not more than 25-30 <br />Rasor Park Master Plan 24 City of Eugene, Parks Planning <br />