Hillsboro Cove has expanded gate shack
Changes to the gate shack at Hillsboro Cove should improve traffic flow and safety for visitors at Marion Reservoir.
The project was one of the last approved before budget concerns essentially brought an end to changes not involving dam safety (see separate story).
"If this was proposed today, we couldn't do it," said Terry Holt, park ranger. "But it certainly is needed here. It will be safer for visitors and attendants."
The shack was built in 1980, when campers weren't 30 feet long with expanding sides. At least one or two a year strike the shack threading their way through the entrance.
"We had a camper with the corner of the building right through its kitchen window," said Eva Hamm, attendant. "Three struck the gate shack that year."
To solve that problem, the gate was shifted north slightly, and both entrance and exit lanes were widened substantially.
A large planting area built of tan concrete blocks was installed in front of the shack. It will add an attractive touch and protect the shack should an oncoming vehicle slip out of control, Holt said.
In addition, the drainage ditch on the south was widened. The wood retaining wall on the north lane was replaced with colored concrete block as well.
More room inside
The project also included enlarging the shack. This was done in part to provide room for the automated reservation system for campsites, linked to a nationwide network.
Safety also was a factor. Previously, pedestrians who needed to visit with an attendant had to stand in the traffic lane. Now a walk-up window is on the back side of the shack. A pay telephone is located next to the window; an overhanging roof provides some protection from inclement weather.
The interior of the shack is large enough for two attendants to move around, as well as keep promotional materials handed out to visitors. It includes windows on all sides so attendants have a better view of visitors.
The shack, walk-up area, and attendants' camping site just south of the shack all have ramps for improved access.
It will be a couple of weeks before the project is completed. Concrete poles will be installed as additional protection at the building.
"Our gate attendants are the backbone of the park when it comes to helping visitors," Holt said. "It's important they are comfortable, and it's important we have an entrance that makes a good first impression."
