Kelley Point Park Reopens With Signs Reminding People Not to Swim

Kelley Point Park in North Portland reopened Thursday after two drownings in just over a week forced a ten-day closure of the park.

Despite signs warning people not to swim in the waters off the 104-acre park - the Columbia and Willamette Rivers meet there, causing powerful currents; there are also steep drop-offs and uneven banks - people would regularly ignore the warning. Twice this month, that has had deadly consequences.

On August 11th, 21-year-old Deshawn Crawford drowned. On August 21st, 10year-old Paw Ku Wah drowned.

There are now large signs warning people in 15 languages not to go in the water.

Ever-changing environmental conditions are some of the major factors that make swimming or wading off of Kelley Point Park so risky, and so life-threatening. The natural beauty of the area may belie these hazards, and Portland Parks & Recreation officials are asking for the community’s help get the word out.

"I want to make sure the danger of swimming off Kelley Point Park is clear to all park visitors," says Portland Parks & Recreation Director Mike Abbaté.

“We know the temporary closure was an inconvenience for some folks, but we felt it was necessary. With the park open once again, we hope visitors to Kelley Point will enjoy the trails and other on-shore activities with an eye on safety.”

Portland Parks Commissioner Amanda Fritz added it is important to know that the waters are dangerous.

"We hope the community will help spread the word and that this will be a safe and enjoyable Labor Day weekend," said Fritz.

Warning sign courtesy Portland Parks & Recreation; Photo courtesy Portland Fire & Rescue