After 44 years of use, E.J. Roberts Park in North Bend has received an upgrade. On April 20, the city of North Bend held an event to commemorate the completion of the park improvements.

The park, which was formally dedicated on July 2, 1972, had a footbridge that was getting worn down. It was replaced in the recent renovations, and a picnic shelter was built. Other improvements included a replacement seesaw and swings and improved access to the children’s play areas.

In his opening speech before officially cutting the ribbon, North Bend Mayor Ken Hearing explained that for the last couple of years there was a movement to put together a parks and beautification committee in order to fix up what had become a very old park.

“Forty-four years is a long time for a park to be static and not have a lot of improvements so it was fitting that a couple years ago the bridge was closed because it became dangerous,” Hearing said. “As a result of that failing bridge from 1972, the city initiated [the improvements].”

Hearing expressed thanks to Mr. and Mrs. E.J. Roberts for their dedication to the community and formation of the park in 1972.

“I’m very positive the Roberts family would be pleased to see this park continue to serve the community the way it has, the way they envisioned it in the beginning,” he said.

Hearing then asked everyone to stand on the bring together for a picture.

“I want to show the world how strong that bridge is, he said.

For more photos of the event, visit: https://flic.kr/s/aHskydJciy.