The City of Portland has given Oaks Amusement Park the go-ahead for a new ride that has stirred controversy among bird advocates. Hearings officer David Doughman ruled against an appeal to stop the construction of the park’s proposed 135-foot-5-inch "drop tower". The appeal was put forth by the Bird Alliance of Oregon, Urban Greenspaces Institute, and Friends of Oaks Bottom, but it did not prevail to influence the city's decision, as reported by KOIN.
Environmental advocates have expressed concerns regarding potential interruptions to migratory bird patterns due to outdoor lighting for the new attraction, specifically the upwards-facing LED spotlights intended to illuminate the tower. Despite these concerns, the city's lighting code mandates that outdoor lights should face downward and be shielded, and it seems that the amusement park’s lighting plan has managed to sufficiently satisfy these requirements, or so wrote Doughman, in his dismissal of the appeal, this detail comes courtesy of Oregon Live.
In response to the hearings officer’s decision, Oaks Amusement Park remarked on its efforts to minimize the impact on wildlife, quoting, “Throughout this process, we have worked closely with lighting and wildlife experts to help reduce potential impacts on wildlife, and we appreciate their guidance in ensuring that this project reflects our commitment to being a responsible neighbor.” This statement was gleaned from KATU.
The coalition continues its efforts related to urban development and wildlife preservation. Discussions concerning the avian community around Oaks Bottom are ongoing.
