Park board approves cherry-tree plantings and 'Never Forget' garden at Riverfront Park

The Spokane Park Board approved a Riverfront Park beautification project to plant 25 cherry trees and establish a "Never Forget" garden to commemorate the nation’s 250th anniversary.

Director John Moog described the proposal as a staff-led effort that would cost the city no additional material funds: Urban Forestry will cover the trees using a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant, the Spokane Parks Foundation pledged irrigation supplies and equipment rentals, and the Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and the Sons of the American Revolution will provide volunteer support and a commemorative plaque. Moog said about 15 of the cherry trees would form a Washington Street couplet flanking the pathway into the Veterans Memorial; other trees and plantings would be added in Red Wagon Meadow and near a reclaimed flagpole foundation.

Board members moved and seconded the proposal and signaled unanimous support by voice vote. Moog said city labor and volunteers will perform much of the planting and that staff aim to complete the work by Sept. 23 and hold a dedication on Sept. 25 to coincide with a scheduled visit from the DAR national president general. The project was described as having labor costs but "no additional material cost to the city"; staff said they would return with any necessary contract approvals or additional details as planting and installation progress.