History

In spring, 1997, the Leo Adler Memorial Parkway (LAMP) in Baker City, Oregon was one of five projects in the nation to receive a grant from a new initiative sponsored by the Rivers, Trails and Conservation Assistance program of the National Park Service and the National Endowment for the Arts.  This program, called the Cultural Interpretation Initiative, was formed to encourage and assist community-based interpretation of natural, historic and cultural resources through the design arts.  The project in Baker City, coined the Voice of the River, was selected for its intent to create an interpretive design package and site-specific public art plan based on the entire length of the Powder River showcasing the rich history of the River an its cultural landscape.

An intensive design workshop was conducted in August 1997 to develop an art/interpretation plan expressive of the spirit of the Powder River depicting the past, present and future.  Surveys were sent and interviews conducted and a large number of Baker City citizens were involved in formulating the plan for the pathway.

The challenge presented to the Design Team was to create an interpretative/artwork concept package that would evoke and focus the region's present and past sense of place, identity and heritage. It was to identify visible and usable spaces within the Leo Adler Memorial Parkway where the "voice" would be best expressed to enhance play, reflection, inspiration, appreciation of beauty and listening to the natural rhythms of the River.  The interpretive / artwork concept package should create an experience that is timeless, evocative and elicits citizen involvement and pride.  Themes were developed to consider the following aspects; Leo Adler, The Powder River, the River Corridor, Patterns of the River, the natural world, geology of the valley, the people, fun, landmarks, connections, gateway to the city, mystery and intrigue, the sounds and the utilitarian function of the River.

Acquisition and development of land along the River has allowed the majority of the pathway to be completed, along with some small park areas.  Bridges crossing the river on the pathway provide excellent vantage points to watch the flow of the river, waterfowl and vegetation.  The flow of the River varies during the year, controlled by release at Phillips Lake.  The differences in water level and seasons provide an ever changing vista.  The pathway is used by walkers year round; every day from sunset to sundown people are strolling along the pathway enjoying the beauty of the River.

The Leo Adler Memorial Parkway is an ever changing, constantly improving asset that keeps people involved in many long range parkway projects and we continue to expand this resource for the enjoyment of all our citizens.