Grab a blanket and a good book.

Portland officially owns a nearly three-acre plot of land along a bluff in the Cathedral Park neighborhood that parks officials say is now open for picnics and relaxation.

In March, the Portland City Council signed off on a deal to buy land at North Crawford Street and North Polk Avenue for $880,000, using parks system development charges.

While the bureau is thrilled to add such a scenic property to its portfolio -- the land offers stunning views of the Willamette River's railroad bridge and downtown in the distance -- there's no immediate plan to develop the park or even name it.

"It may be down the line until it's developed," Mark Ross, parks spokesman said. "But even in its current state, it's quite enjoyable, with killer views."

The property is basically an open grassy area, with two large heritage Oregon white Oak trees.

Portland bought the land from Open Meadow, an alternative high school that has since moved. The school advertised the land and its adjacent classroom and administrative offices for $1.85 million.

In a statement, Commissioner Amanda Fritz said the new parkland adds open space to an area that's "experienced considerable residential growth" in recent years.

According to parks officials, the new park reaches 477 households that until now had no park within one-half mile, and serves 798 households overall.

The Parks Bureau will mow and prune on the property as well as provide trash service, but beyond that, it could be years until the city determines what features and amenities to add.

A formal name is likely years away, too.

"They can call it whatever they like," Ross said, "as long as they enjoy it."



-- Andrew Theen

atheen@oregonian.com

503-294-4026

@cityhallwatch