CPRD’s Exciting Plans for Newberg/Dundee in 2025-26 with Superintendent Clay Downing
In the latest episode of The Giving Town Podcast, I (Daniel) had a conversation with Clay Downing, Superintendent of the Chehalem Park and Recreation District (CPRD) to talk about what’s coming next for parks, fields, and public spaces in Newberg and Dundee.
Renne Field Turf Project - A First for CPRD
Renne Field, owned by the school district, is set to become CPRD’s first-ever public turf field. Why turf? Simple: Oregon weather.
Clay explained that maintaining grass fields year-round is nearly impossible with our wet winters and dry summers. Turf gives the district a way to offer consistent, durable field space especially important for middle school sports, which CPRD now administers in partnership with the schools.
CPRD obtained a state parks grant to help fund it.
A 35-year lease agreement gives both CPRD and the school district flexibility for future changes.
While turf is lower maintenance than grass, it does require cleaning, and CPRD staff are preparing to learn proper upkeep from other local experts.
The Sanders Park Project in Dundee is Happening!
Right next to the Sanders Estate in Dundee, CPRD is finally breaking ground this summer on a long-awaited park development.
Originally master planned in 2021, the project faced delays, but construction will begin soon, starting with:
Parking
Restrooms
A brand new splash pad (the district’s second!)
Shade structures and native landscaping
A cool combo bench + planter feature to make the space inviting right away
This park will be built in four phases, but residents should start seeing action by July.
Bonus: CPRD welcomes in kind support, so if you have salvaged trees or want to donate materials, they’d love to hear from you.
Want to Help? There’s a Foundation for That
Did you know CPRD has a nonprofit foundation? It’s a 501(c)(3) that lets residents, businesses, and organizations donate to park projects or even specific causes, like youth sports, playgrounds, or shade structures.
You can designate your donation to a specific park or project
It also manages memorial benches and estate gifts
Annual contributions usually fall under $75,000, but CPRD has seen larger one-time gifts that make a big difference
This foundation is not as widely known as it should be, and CPRD wants to change that.
New Leadership, New Direction?
Two new members were recently elected to the CPRD Board, and since the board only has five members, every new voice has a real impact.
That’s why a July 10 board workshop will focus on reviewing past priorities and potentially redefining them based on the board’s current vision.
This could shape everything from park expansion to youth programming in the coming years.
Stay in the Loop
Want to know what’s happening with CPRD? You have a few easy ways to keep up:
Visit cprdnewberg.org
Watch board meetings live on Zoom
Or scan the meeting minutes later if you’re short on time
Community Partners Like Rotary Make it All Possible
Groups like Rotary have helped CPRD add new playgrounds, plan park upgrades, and more. Right now, the Early Birds Rotary Club is exploring ways to support updates at Scott Leavitt Park, showing again how community partnerships can bring big changes to local parks.
Looking Ahead: What Excites the Superintendent Most?
Clay Downing may not have a background in traditional parks and rec, but his passion lies in building strong teams, improving communication, and making CPRD a visible and accessible part of the community.
Whether you’re a parent, a sports fan, a walker, or just someone who wants more places to relax and play, CPRD has big plans, and they’re just getting started.
Want to help? Have questions? Visit cprdnewberg.org or visit a meeting. You might be surprised how much your voice matters.
Stay connected with The Giving Town Podcast
If you found this conversation with Clay Downing insightful, be sure to check out other episodes of The Giving Town Podcast. Each episode features honest, in-depth conversations with community leaders, changemakers, and everyday people making a difference in Newberg and beyond.
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