Clark County unveils Gordy Joma master plan for 118‑acre Salmon Creek natural area; public comment open through Nov. 21

Kevin Tyler and Ross Hoover described the Gordy Joma Family Natural Area master plan, a county acquisition of the former Cedars Golf Course. Tyler said the county purchased 118 acres with about 2.2 miles of river frontage along Salmon Creek and has been working with the Cowlitz Indian Tribe on a master plan that emphasizes floodplain reconnection and fish‑habitat improvements alongside passive recreation.

Ross Hoover, Parks and Nature division manager, said the draft design presented to the public includes native meadows, nature‑based play areas, boardwalks, a mix of soft and hard surface trails to enable ADA accessibility, two bird blinds, visual and auditory water access, floodplain reconnection, ADA parking and bus parking for school field trips, restrooms, and a picnic shelter. The county will retain an irrigation remnant pond on the northwest side.

Hoover said the county completed its most recent public meeting and is still reviewing comments; staff reported that many community members asked to keep the area primarily nature‑based with limited water access and appropriately sized parking to avoid safety hazards at road exits. Public comment on the design is open through Nov. 21, and staff said an adopted site plan is needed to support grant applications. Staff estimated that construction could begin in as little as a couple of years if matching grants are obtained, but that a realistic range to start development is two to five years depending on grant cycles and operations funding.

Staff said future council consideration will include funding strategies and phased implementation plans.