On Wednesday, April 17, 2019 two homes near the corner of E. Park Street and Ballarat Ave in downtown North Bend were torn down, drawing the attention of many residents.
The two homes were owned by the Si View Metropolitan Park District, which announced it had recently purchased the land parcel that sits adjacent to William Henry Taylor (Train Depot) Park.
The District stated it demolished the two empty houses on the property “in preparation for future community use with the adjoining park.”
According to a press release, the current project scope involves removal of asbestos, demolition of the houses, addition of topsoil and minor landscaping. Si View said the project phase will be done this month.
Other planned future projects on the site include renovating the Train Depot building and remodeling the surrounding park space for community use, including the newly acquired lot.
Si View Parks stated, “We welcome your involvement and participation in community meetings during the planning process. Planning for renovation projects will begin in 2020. This project is funded by the District capital improvement bond.”
The North Bend Train Depot is owned by the City of North Bend. Si View coordinates facility rentals on behalf of the city. The City and Si View have collaborated on other parks projects, including Tollgate Farm Park and the future Tenant Trailhead Park.
