Prevented Beach Parking Fees in Florence, OR

Fisherman and surfers alike have historically used this parking area, known locally as “Chicken Point”, free of charge. In the summer of 2007, Lane County Parks took over the property (renaming it Harbor Vista Park) and put in place a user fee with no general improvement or services for the parking area. Day-use fees set a dangerous precedent for public rights to free and open access to our beaches and coastline scenic views. Area residents and Surfrider activists responded swiftly by gathering over 250 signatures on a petition to eliminate the fee, as well as providing crucial public testimony to the Lane County Board of Commissioners. West Lane Commissioner Bill Fleenor championed the cause and quickly motioned the Commission and instructed park staff to remove the user fee sign from the area.