Connect > THPRD celebrates 60 years of service to community in 2015
THPRD celebrates 60 years of service to community in 2015
THPRD celebrates 60 years of service to community in 2015
February 25, 2015 - Posted in:
History, News Release
For most public agencies, March 4 is just another date. Not for the Tualatin Hills Park & Recreation District.
Sixty years ago on that date, voters in the Beaverton area approved a taxing structure for the district, and THPRD was officially born. The vote capped a two-year-long campaign led by local physical education instructor Elsie Stuhr (pictured third from left) and other citizens who foresaw growth in the area and the need for park and recreation services.
Two years later, in 1957, the district opened its first facility, the Beaverton Swim Center, which is still in use today next to Beaverton High School.
From those humble beginnings, THPRD has grown to encompass 50 square miles of eastern Washington County. The population within those boundaries is 230,000.
The district provides year-round recreational opportunities for people of all ages and abilities. Offerings include thousands of widely diverse classes, more than 90 park sites with active recreational amenities, 60 miles of trails, eight swim centers, six recreation centers, and 1,400 acres of natural areas.
“Our success has been built on a supportive community and a commitment to provide a wide variety of high-quality park and recreational services that meet the needs of our residents,” said Doug Menke, THPRD general manager. “By design, the district started very small, proved itself to voters, and grew gradually into what it is today: the envy of many communities.”
Throughout the remainder of 2015, the 60th anniversary celebration will be
woven into an assortment of district communications, activities and events. For example, when registration for spring classes begins on March 7, registrants will be invited to enter a drawing. The winner will get a $60 THPRD gift card.
“It’s going to be a fun year,” Menke said. “We invite our patrons to join us in the celebration.”
For more information about the park district, visit www.thprd.org or call 503-645-6433.
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Contact:
Bob Wayt
Director – Communications
503/614-1218 (direct)
503/686-5134 (cell)
Date: February 25, 2015
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Click here for official release (PDF).