GRESHAM, Ore. - Anyone who lives in the Rockwood neighborhood or passes through on a regular basis knows that a lot of changes have taken place there this past year.
The Rockwood MAX Station has been completely revamped, there are new sidewalks and landscaping, a community center and police station are now there and an entire intersection was redesigned. There is also a new plaza area for community events and a small playground for kids.
Photo by Shannon L. Cheesman, KATU.com Producer/Reporter
The improvements are part of the city's Rockwood in Motion project, a plan to revitalize the neighborhood and improve its overall appearance. Special attention has been placed on a 6.5-acre piece of property at Southeast 185th and Stark that's known as the Rockwood Triangle.
One of the most visual changes is a public art piece called Rockwood Sunrise. It's a giant structure made of stainless steel with brightly colored rays that stand between 35 and 58 feet tall. At night there is a special effect to the design - the tips illuminate as trains arrive and depart the station.
Photo by Shannon L. Cheesman, KATU.com Producer/Reporter
Rockwood Sunrise is striking against the landscape and has gotten mixed reviews from the public. Earlier this year, we asked our readers to tell us what they think of it and the general consensus wasn't exactly positive. Here are a few of the comments on our story:
Love it or hate it, Rockwood Sunrise is now a part of the scenery.
Now aside from the reaction to that particular item, one does have to admit that the Rockwood area is looking better these days. There are newly paved sidewalks and roads, beautiful street lamps and some added greenery. And of course the MAX station is much more modern.
The colorful community gathering area called Plaza del Sol (seen in the photo below) is a nice added touch. Last year, we stopped by there for the Cinco de Mayo celebration where folks were having a wonderful time - proof that a plaza really can bring people together.
Photo by Shannon L. Cheesman, KATU.com Producer/Reporter
For those who have a bad impression of the Rockwood area (it certainly has gained itself quite the reputation in the past few decades), perhaps it's time to revisit the neighborhood and take another look. That's all we're saying. If anything, you can check out that giant Rockwood Sunrise piece for yourself and form your own opinion.
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