Sunrise Corridor Vision Takes Root

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Friends of Trees in front of a sapling

Rain did not stop progress in the Sunrise Corridor.

Volunteers with the Sunrise Community Coalition partnered with Friends of Trees to plant 19 large trees and more than 1,000 shrubs at Windswept Waters, Veterans Village, and Riverside Park. By the end of the day, new vine maples, ponderosa pines, red alders, river birch, and white oaks were rooted in the ground, strengthening shade coverage and investing in the long-term health of the community.

This effort is part of the broader Sunrise Corridor initiative, a long-term effort to guide growth in one of the fastest-growing areas of Clackamas County. The corridor is home to 7,600 residents, 700 businesses, and more than 14,000 employees. Highway 212 runs through the area and serves as one of the busiest east-west freight routes in the state, connecting communities including Happy Valley and Estacada.

More than 1,500 community members helped shape the Sunrise Corridor Community Vision Plan, which was formally accepted in 2025. The plan outlines a path forward focused on community improvements, economic vitality, strong neighborhoods, and increased access to open space and nature.

The recent tree planting directly advances the Open Space, Public Health, and Environment priority identified in the Vision Plan. Expanding tree canopy helps reduce summer heat, improve air quality, support habitat, and create more welcoming public spaces. It also reflects the community’s desire for more green space and improved access to the Clackamas River and surrounding natural areas.

Now that the Vision Plan has been accepted, implementation is underway. The Sunrise Community Coalition is working with residents and businesses to prioritize projects that reflect community input, including safer streets, better walking and biking connections, stronger support for local businesses, and expanded green space.

Despite challenging weather, volunteers showed up to turn vision into action. Their work is one example of how community ideas are becoming real improvements on the ground.

To learn more about the Sunrise Corridor and to sign up for updates about future volunteer opportunities, visit our webpage.