I write on behalf of the Friends of Baxter Woods and concerned area residents about the state of Baxter Woods Park and adjacent properties, including Deering Pavilion and Stevens Square. It is distressing to see the significant decline of these places that adversely affects their aesthetic value and poses various environmental and safety risks.

Upon visiting Baxter Woods, I noticed that the pond at the entrance has devolved into what resembles a swamp, largely due to an accumulation of trash, including bottles and cans. This once-vibrant habitat for frogs, turtles and birds has been transformed into a littered area filled with dead wood from fallen limbs, leaves and branches. This decline marks a stark contrast to the beauty that Mayor Baxter once envisioned for this park.

The adjoining properties are in a similarly distressing state, withering under apparent neglect. The presence of stagnant water has become a breeding ground for mosquitoes, ticks and black flies, effectively making these areas unpleasant for visitors and unsafe for the community. The mature trees on all involved properties are contributing to the unattractiveness as fallen limbs accumulate due to lack of maintenance.

I strongly urge the city of Portland and owners of adjacent properties to initiate a comprehensive clean-up and drainage project to restore these areas to their former glory. Not only would this effort revitalize a beautiful part of our city, but it would also mitigate safety hazards, including the potential for wildfires that could threaten both the park and nearby homes.

Jabrone Thomas
Portland