Ed Benedict Park

Park
Two people playing one-on-one basketball on an outdoor court on a bright sunny day.
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Skate Plaza Stats

18,000 sq ft of street skating with ledges, edges, stairs, rails, and banks. By using recycled and/or sustainable materials in its construction, and with its native landscaping and on-site stormwater treatment, this site is considered to be the first environmentally sensitive skate plaza ever constructed. Tread Lightly is a multifaceted art installation by Dan Garland, integrated into the skate plaza. It is meant to provoke thought regarding the intersection between natural and man-made environments, and points towards a search for balance and sustainability.

Year acquired
1988
Size in acres
12.70
History

The park was named in commemoration of Ed Benedict, a statesman and community activist who was instrumental in getting the park built. In addition to his work as a nurseryman and landscape contractor, he served three terms in the Oregon Legislature, and was a member of many community organizations, including Urban League of Portland, NAACP, and the East County Coordinating Committee. When the proposed Mt. Hood freeway project fell through, Benedict worked hard to ensure that the land that had been purchased as an easement for the freeway be developed as a neighborhood park. In 1988 the parcel known as Mt Hood Park was deeded to the City of Portland for "eventual use as a recreational park." Benedict died that year and, in his will, left money to establish a trust fund to develop the park. Ed Benedict Community Park was officially named at a ceremony on July 29, 1991.

In 2009, the skate plaza was added to the park. In 2018, Ed Benedict Park’s restrooms nearest the skate park were renovated with funding from the 2014 Parks Replacement Bond so that they can be open year-round. Improvements included new ADA-compliant pathways to the restrooms.

Accessibility Notes

Parking

  • Street parking
  • 2 designated parking spaces
  • Paved pathway to play area
  • 50 feet to play area

Play Area

  • Engineered mulch surface
  • Ramp into play area

Play Equipment

  • Transfer station
  • Sensory play elements

Other Amenities

  • Accessible restroom
  • Accessible picnic table

Park Location or Entrance

SE 100th Avenue and Powell Blvd
Portland, OR 97266

Related

Open hours

Park hours: 5:00am-midnight

To reserve a sports field, call 503-823-2525.

Park amenities/activities

Accessible Play Area
Accessible Restroom
Picnic Table
Playground
Skate Park
Statue or Public Art
Paths (Paved)
Paths (Unpaved)
Soccer Field
Basketball Court

Park policy

  • All dogs must be leashed in this park.

City section

East