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News Release

State Advisory Committee On Historic Preservation To Meet February 20-21, 2025, In Salem -02/05/25

Salem, Ore. -- The State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation (SACHP) will meet on February 20 and 21 at the State Library of Oregon (250 Winter St NE) in Salem to consider nominations to the National Register of Historic Places. The SACHP meeting is hybrid and open to the public.

The meeting agenda includes guided tours, presentations, and hearings for five proposed nominations and one proposed Multiple Property Documentation (MPD) form. The guided tours are scheduled for Thursday, February 20, at 1:00 p.m., and the business meeting will begin at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, February 21. Anyone may attend the business meeting in person or electronically; instructions for how to attend electronically are posted on the commission web page: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Pages/Commissions.aspx (look under "State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation" and "Upcoming Meetings and Agendas"). Registration is required to speak at the meeting.
 

On Friday, February 21, the committee will complete a courtesy review of a proposed nomination for the Salem Substation in Polk County at 11:30am. Beginning at 1:00pm, the committee will then review a proposed nomination for the Owyhee Grocery in Nyssa, Malheur County; a proposed nomination for the Mingus Park Community Building in Coos Bay, Coos County; a proposed MPD for Oregon Country Methodist Mission Sites: 1834-1847; a proposed nomination for the Mill Place House Site in Salem, Marion County; and a proposed nomination for the Port Orford City Jail in Port Orford, Curry County. For other agenda items, please refer to the online agenda: https://www.oregon.gov/oprd/OH/Pages/Commissions.aspx (look under "State Advisory Committee on Historic Preservation" and "Upcoming Meetings and Agendas").
 

The SACHP is a nine-member governor-appointed citizen commission with credentials in many historic preservation-related fields. Nominations recommended by the SACHP go to the National Park Service, which maintains the National Register of Historic Places under the authority of the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966.
 

This effort aligns with the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan goal to increase the thematic diversity of Oregon properties listed in the National Register of Historic Places. It also supports the goals to include more voices and increase access to Oregon heritage that are part of the Oregon Heritage Plan.
 

The meeting is accessible to people with disabilities. Special accommodations may be made with at least three days of advance notice by calling (503) 986-0690.
 

More information about the National Register of Historic Places process is online at www.oregonheritage.org.

Grants Available For Historic Properties And Archaeology Projects -01/31/25

The State Historic Preservation Office is offering grants for work on historic properties and for archaeology projects. The annual grants fund up to $20,000 in matching funds for preservation projects. Both grant programs support the goals of the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan.

The Preserving Oregon Grants fund preservation of historic properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Work may include non-maintenance preservation like window repair, roof work, foundation projects, plumbing, and electrical needs. Recently funded projects include preservation of the following historic properties.

  • Elks Building, Medford
  • Ashland Parks Foundation
  • Aurora Colony Historical Society
  • Friends of Santiam Pass Ski Lodge, Linn County
  • Gordon House Conservancy, Silverton
  • Southern Oregon Historical Society, Hanley Farm

Preserving Oregon Grants can also fund archaeology projects for significant work contributing toward identifying, preserving and/or interpreting archaeological sites. Archaeology projects by Southern Oregon University Lab of Anthropology were funded last year.

The Diamonds in the Rough Grants help restore or reconstruct the facades of buildings that have been heavily altered over the years. These grants return buildings to their historic appearance and potentially qualify them for historic register designation (local or national). Recent façade projects have taken place in Baker City, Independence, Lebanon, The Dalles, Union.

The online grant application is simple to use and includes plenty of support. Free, online grant workshops specific to these grant programs and how to use the online grant application will be offered. Visit the Oregon Heritage grants webpage to register.

  • February 18, 1:00 p.m. - 2:00 p.m. for Preserving Oregon Grants historic property projects. Register for access.
  • February 18, 2:30 p.m. -- 3:30 p.m. for Preserving Oregon Grants historic archaeology projects. Register for access.
  • February 19, 2:30 p.m. -- 3:30 p.m. for Diamonds in the Rough building façade projects. Register for access.
     

Recorded trainings and tips are also online. To learn more about the grants and workshops visit www.oregonheritage.org or contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

Historic Gift Shop Closed Temporarily For Restoration In 2025 (Photo) -01/30/25

DEPOE BAY, Oregon-- The historic gift shop at Otter Crest State Scenic Viewpoint is slated for restoration starting in February to reinforce its structural integrity, preserve the building's character and enhance accessibility.

 

The Cape Foulweather Gift Shop closed for the season this month and will remain closed through June for construction. There will be limited to no parking at Otter Crest during the work.

 

"The Lookout at Cape Foulweather" gift shop was built in 1937 and listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2014 for its significance to early tourism along the Oregon Coast Highway and its association with the U.S. Coast Guard operations during World War II.

 

The first phase of the $917,000 project will include:

  • Exterior repairs and replacement of the roof, windows and siding to address an aging building envelope
  • Restore the character of the façade with siding materials similar to those used on original building
  • Structural repairs designed to strengthen the foundation and walls
  • Enhance safety and increase accessibility through improving entrances

"Generations of visitors have stopped at this little shop to pick up souvenirs and take in the panoramic views from 450 feet up. This work will help preserve the historic building for generations to come," said Historic Architecture Project Manager Jenny Wilder.

 

The second phase of the project will focus on accessibility and upgrades to the mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems inside the gift shop. Construction is slated to begin in winter 2025 and cost about $500,000.

 

Oregon Parks and Recreation Department's mission includes protecting and sharing historic structures like the Cape Foulweather Gift Shop for the enjoyment and education of current and future visitors.

 

Each biennium, the department spends some of its project funds on historic restoration and maintenance. Upcoming projects also include the Yaquina Bay Lighthouse and Hughes House at Cape Blanco State Park. For more information and updates about the project, visit the park page.

Attached Media Files: 0657.jpg, Look-Out.jpg,

Local Government Grant Program Accepting Applications For 2025 Projects -01/28/25

SALEM, Oregon--The Local Government Grant Program (LGGP) 2025 grant cycle is now open and accepting applications to help local government agencies fund everything from playground equipment and restrooms to splashpads and bike paths around the state.   

 

This year approximately $15 million in funds are available in this competitive grant process.  The purpose of the program is to help local government agencies fund projects to acquire, develop and rehabilitate parks and public outdoor recreation areas and facilities. Eligible applicants are cities, counties, metropolitan service districts, park and recreation districts and port districts.

 

The maximum awards range from $50,000 for small community planning grants up to $1 million for large projects.

 

Learn more about applying for the grants at a live online workshop 9 to 10:30 a.m. Feb. 12. The workshop will help new and returning applicants navigate the application process and learn about the program. Register at:

https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_t_-azpZgRYO0JNDS6gnR2g

 

A recording of the workshop will be available after Feb. 12 at oprdgrants.org.  (Select the Grant Programs drop-down menu, then select Local Government.)

Program grants are split into large, small and planning categories. Application deadlines vary by grant type:

  • Large grant application deadline ($1,000,000 maximum award):   April 1
  • Small grant application deadline ($100,000 maximum award):       May 1
  • Planning grant application deadline ($50,000 maximum award):   May 15

Local governments can apply online at oprdgrants.org. Applicants will need to set up an account when applying for the first time. The site also includes additional information about the LGGP including the grant manual, application instructions and program schedule.

 

The Lottery-funded grant program is administered by the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD). The program has awarded more than $100 million in reimbursement grant funds since 2000. The recent increase in grant funding is the result of yearly increases in State Lottery funds, which triggered an increase in the percentage of Lottery funds allocated to the grant program from 12% to 25% of OPRD's share of lottery funds. OPRD's budget does not include any general tax funds.

Grants Available For Historic Cemetery Projects -01/27/25

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries is offering grants for qualified historic cemeteries. The annual grants fund projects that preserve historic cemeteries. Projects funded in the past include marker repair workshops, fencing, signs, interpretive panels and brochures, security lighting, access improvements, records management, and more.

Awards typically range between $1,000 and $8,000, but have been higher. Anyone may apply for a grant. Projects must be related to historic cemeteries listed with the Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries. Recent projects include marker repair and workshops in several cemeteries, installations of signs and informational kiosks, a preservation plan, and a fence replacement.

"Our goal is to preserve Oregon's historic cemeteries and offer support throughout the application process," said historic cemeteries program coordinator Kuri Gill. Last year's awards included projects in in Clackamas, Jackson, Lane, Linn, Marion, Umatilla, Union, Wasco Counties.

The online grant application is simple to use and includes plenty of support.  A free, online workshop specific to this grant and how to use the online grant application system will be offered February 11, 2:30 p.m. -- 3:30 p.m. Registration is required. Recorded trainings and tips are also online.

State law established the seven-member historic cemeteries commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. These grants support the goals of the Oregon Historic Preservation Plan and the Oregon Heritage Plan. To learn more about the grants or workshops visit www.oregonheritage.org. For additional information, translation, and accessibility needs contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

Historic Cemeteries Commission Meets February 7 -01/24/25

The Oregon Commission on Historic Cemeteries will meet via online meeting on February 7 at 1:00 p.m. The agenda includes discussion of Oregon Heritage Vitality Report and future workplan items. The meeting is open to the public and the agenda includes an opportunity for public comment. Follow this link to register for meeting access information.

State law established the seven-member Commission to maintain a listing of all historic cemeteries and gravesites in Oregon; promote public education on the significance of historic cemeteries; and help obtain financial and technical assistance for restoring, improving and maintaining their appearances. For more information about commission activities or to attend in person, contact coordinator Kuri Gill at 503-986-0685 or by e-mail at kuri.gill@oprd.oregon.gov.

Special accommodations for the meeting -- including translation services -- may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting. For more historic cemetery resources or more information about the commission, visit www.oregonheritage.org.

Grants Available For Oregon Museum Projects -01/23/25

The Oregon Heritage Commission is offering grants to qualified museums for collections, heritage tourism, and education and interpretation projects. Awards typically range between $2,000 and $10,000.

Museums may apply for a variety of projects. Collections projects may include cataloging, archival storage, disaster preparedness, and conservation. Heritage tourism projects may include museum marketing and promotions, enhancing visitor experience, and training for museum staff. Education and interpretation projects may include exhibits, online education, school classes, workshops, and camps. Museums may also partner with other organizations for projects that might be outside of the museum, but still meet the museum's mission.

"This program is quite broad and can be used to collect the full spectrum of Oregon's history, preserve it and raise awareness of it. We hope to see both creative and practical proposals," said Oregon Heritage Coordinator, Katie Henry. Past projects include:

  • Interpretation and education projects at the Cannon Beach History Center and Wallowa History Center;
  • Collections projects by City of Sumpter, City of Willamina, Five Oaks Museum (Washington County), Gresham Historical Society, Hellenic-American Cultural Center and Museum (Portland), Jackknife-Zion-Horsehaven Historical Society (Clackamas County), Keizer Heritage Foundation, Oregon Fire Service Museum, Memorial and Learning Center (Marion County), Shelton McMurphey Johnson Associates (Eugene), Southern Oregon Historical Society (Medford); and
  • Tourism projects by the Benton County Historical Society (Philomath) and Gold Hill Historical Society. 

The online grant application is simple to use and includes plenty of support.  A free online workshop specific to this grant and how to use the online grant application will be offered February 11, 1:00 p.m. -- 2:00 p.m. Advance registration is required. Recorded trainings and tips are also online.

The Heritage Commission is comprised of nine people representing Oregon's heritage and geographical diversity who have been appointed by the Governor. There are also nine advisory representatives from state agencies and statewide organizations. The commission's mission is to secure, sustain, and enhance Oregon's heritage by ensuring coordination of heritage initiatives by public and private organizations; advocacy on its behalf; education of the public about its extent and value; and promotion and celebration of its diversity. The commission supports Oregon Heritage Plan goals that include: including more voices of Oregon's history, access to Oregon's historic resources, attaining best practices and promoting the value of heritage.

To learn more about museum grants, visit www.oregonheritage.org. For additional questions, translation and accessibility needs contact Kuri Gill at Kuri.Gill@oprd.oregon.gov or 503-986-0685.

Public Meeting To Discuss Proposed Setback Dike At Sitka Sedge State Natural Area (Photo) -01/22/25

PACIFIC CITY -- Oregon Parks and Recreation Department (OPRD) will host a townhall meeting 3 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7 at Kiawanda Community Center to discuss a proposed setback dike at  Sitka Sedge State Natural Area.

 

OPRD and its partner, Tillamook Estuaries Partnership, are designing a proposed setback dike to replace the tide control function of the existing dike, which has been failing.

 

The informational meeting will be held in person at 34600 Cape Kiawanda Drive in Pacific City and include a presentation and time for questions.

 

For those who cannot attend the meeting in person, it will be livestreamed via webinar and recorded. Join the webinar at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87005693462 or find a recording online afterward at OPRD's YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkqL6iVPBrfCTO27cNmCTwg.

 

Internet speed issues in the area have made past audio and video streams of meeting content choppy. OPRD will continue to try to find ways of improving webinar audio and video quality.

 

Visit the website to learn more about the project, including a fact page on the right-hand side.

Attached Media Files: 0965.JPG, 0933.JPG,

Cape Lookout Moves Construction To Fall, Reopens Summer Reservations (Photo) -01/17/25

TILLAMOOK, Oregon— Cape Lookout State Park will move its construction closure to fall 2025, which means summer campground reservations will reopen. 

 

The park was slated to close temporarily for construction starting in spring 2025, but the schedule has changed. 

 

All reservable campsites sites in A, B, C and D loops as well as deluxe cabins and yurts will be reservable online for stays May 31 through the current 6-month reservation window starting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 21.

 

Cape Lookout is one of the nine GO Bond projects at Oregon State Parks supported through Oregon-issued general obligation bonds approved by the Oregon State Legislature in 2021.

 

Originally, the project included moving camp loops A & B to higher ground and away from encroaching seawater, but unexpected geological and safety concerns prevented the move. Now the work will focus on extending the life of the existing infrastructure and slated to include: 

  • Reinforcing the existing dune to prevent seawater from entering the camp loops
  • Upgrading electrical and water systems in C and D loops
  • Day use improvements
  • Replacing campground restroom/shower building

The work is scheduled to begin in fall of 2025 and extend into spring or summer 2026. The campground and day-use area will be closed during construction. 

We encourage visitors to monitor Oregon State Park website for up-to-date information about the Cape Lookout State Park GO Bond project and campground closures.

 

For more detailed information about the project visit the park construction web page.

Attached Media Files: 1020.JPG,

Oregon Heritage Commission To Meet Jan. 27 Online -01/13/25

The Oregon Heritage Commission will meet Jan. 27 online. The agenda includes a discussion led by the Commission’s Tribal Relationship Building Sub-Committee, an update on the 2026 Oregon Heritage Plan process and the 2024 Oregon Heritage Vitality Study.

This meeting is open to the public and there is an opportunity at the beginning of the meeting for public comment. For online attendance, registration is required. To view the full agenda and/or to register for the virtual meeting visit here.

Special accommodations for the meeting – including translation services – may be made by calling (503) 986‐0690 or Mary.Newcomb@oprd.oregon.gov at least 72 hours prior to the start of the meeting.

The Heritage Commission’s nine Governor appointed members represent a diversity of cultural, geographic, and institutional interests. The Commission’s nine advisory members include representatives from the Oregon State Library, Oregon State Archives, State Historical Records Advisory Board, Higher Education Coordinating Committee, Travel Oregon, Oregon Historical Society, Department of Education, State Historic Preservation Office, and the Department of Land Conservation and Development.

The Commission is the primary agency for coordination of heritage activities in the state. This includes carrying out the Oregon Heritage Plan, increasing efficiency and avoiding duplication among interest groups, developing plans for coordination among agencies and organizations, encouraging tourism related to heritage resources, and coordinating statewide anniversary commemorations.

More information about the Oregon Heritage Commission is available online at www.oregonheritage.org and from Commission coordinator Katie Henry at 503-877-8834 or katie.henry@oprd.oregon.gov. 

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