Parks staff provided an update on recent events and near‑term operations at the Nov. 19 meeting of the Troutdale Parks Advisory Committee.

Staff highlighted the third annual Halloween dog costume contest and thanked volunteers and staff for running the event. They also described the recent ribbon cutting at Sharon Nesbitt Park and said that the honoree Sharon Nesbitt attended and enjoyed the opening.

Staff advised that part of the trail under the railroad trestle is temporarily closed at the request of Union Pacific Railroad because delivery of some overhead trellis screens that shield users from potential falling debris has been delayed. "The possibility of an injury is not something that the railroad was willing to accept," staff said, and added that the trail portion will remain closed until protective screens are installed. Staff said they do not have a firm reopening date but reported contractors are hopeful playground safety features will be installed before the new year.

On longer‑term maintenance, staff said they are working on an invasive weed management plan and have been talking with Mosaic Ecology—an ecological restoration contractor that works with East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District and Metro—about expanding riverbank restoration along Beaver Creek and the Sandy River. That plan is intended to support eligibility for a competitive, matching grant with a mid‑December deadline.

Staff also noted holiday preparations: parks crews began decorating downtown and plan the Windy Wonderland tree‑lighting event in Mare Square on Sunday, Dec. 7.

Committee members raised immediate safety concerns about temporary orange barricades at the trail under the trestle (a resident reported they were not filled with water and could be moved). Staff said the barricades likely belong to Cove Construction or Union Pacific Railroad and pledged to pass the concern along and further inspect potential mitigation such as temporary lighting or more visible rail treatments at the elevated path.

No formal action was taken; staff said they will continue coordinating with contractors and the railroad and will provide updates to the committee as work progresses.