Port ponders Twin Tunnels property

HOOD RIVER — While it’s no secret, it’s not widely known either: the Port of Hood River owns 66 acres in Wasco County, including part of the Mosier Twin Tunnels bike trail.

The question is, what should the port do with it?

Port commissioners will consider ideas later this fall, having reviewed a 2020 site analysis at their Sept. 15 board meeting. The two adjoining parcels (Wasco County tax lots 400 and 600) are located just west of the Twin Tunnels, with the eastern boundary less than a half-mile from a “rock shed” protecting the western tunnel’s approach trail. The port originally acquired 80 acres to quarry rock for a Columbia River dike extension. The property cost $800 in 1959. Most of the trail frontage came in a 1979 property trade, according to the 2020 analysis conducted by two summer interns, Jose Santillan-Moralis and Beto Rojas.

They suggested possible uses including renewable energy, hiking trails and picnic tables. The parcel slopes steeply toward the river, with panoramic views from the southern boundary. Adjoining parcels are under private and public ownership, including Oregon Parks & Recreation Department. The site is zoned open space.

Port commissioner Tor Bieker prompted the Sept. 15 discussion.

“Just sitting on it seems pointless,” he said, suggesting it either be sold or donated. “I’d like to know enough for us to make an informed decision.”

Commissioner Kathryn Thomas asked about other port properties. “I’d like to know what we own before we start talking about individual pieces,” she said.

Although most of the Port of Hood River’s properties are well-known, such as the Hood River waterfront, boat basin, Odell industrial park and Ken Jernstedt Airfield, the Wasco County parcel has received little attention. The majority of port property is underwater, beneath the Columbia River.

Port staff will return this fall with a property inventory, but for now, fate of the scenic site awaits a later decision.