NEWPORT, Oregon— Beverly Beach State Park will welcome campers and day-use visitors Aug. 1 after an 11-month closure due to construction.
“We’re excited to have visitors back in the park. It’s one of the best parts of this job, and we have missed it,” said Park Manager Burke Martin.
The bathrooms have been cleaned, and campsites are ready to go. And the majority of the park’s construction work is complete.
Crews moved overhead power lines underground for safety and to maintain electricity during high winds at the coast. The park also replaced its aging waterlines.
The work required digging into the asphalt road that winds through the park and repaving. It’s part of the $50 million GO Bond investment from the Oregon State Legislature for Oregon State Park projects around the state.
But the most noticeable change is the increase in sunshine streaming through the tree canopy. In a separate project, Oregon State Parks removed about 200 hazard trees for public safety.
Hazard trees have an increased risk of dropping limbs or toppling, which can lead to injuries or property damage. While the removal was necessary, it did impact the look of the park. Some campsites will have less shade and visual screening than before.
Beverly Beach is experiencing an increase in tree mortality at the park that is likely due to drought stress brought on by a receding water table. To promote long-term tree health and resilience, park staff will plant a variety native trees and shrubs better suited to a climate that is shifting to hotter and dryer conditions.
“We appreciate everyone’s patience during the construction and reopening. We understand that the park looks a little different, but the hazard tree removal makes it’s safer for visitors to enjoy,” Martin said.
Signs throughout the park will highlight the forest health enhancements and share more information about the hazard tree project. For more information about Beverly Beach, visit the park’s webpage. For camping reservations at Beverly Beach, visit our reservation website or call (800) 452-5687.
