Sandy Brinley, left, and Dan Rule are shown in this photo at the dedication. Photos by Joelle Leder Rule
Some people follow a path while others forge it. Sandy Brinley is definitely the latter.
Brinley was acknowledged recently by the community for her help in developing the 3.5 mile Oakhurst River Parkway. A big group gathered on Road 426 to dedicate a parkette and a newly carved bear to the woman who has been a driving force behind transforming the space.
“Sandy Brinley didn’t just imagine a better place, she created one,” said Sierra Tel’s Dan Rule. “The Oakhurst River Parkway stands as a lasting reminder that one person’s vision can enrich an entire community for generations.”
Rule said Brinley didn’t stop at planning, she worked hard to not only create the parkway but also to maintain it, picking up trash as she walked along.
The origin of the parkway project dates back to 1992 when Brinley and a small group of like-minded individuals looked at a trio of local waterways — the Fresno River, Oak Creek and China Creek — and began to envision a dream.
The new carved bear at Teddy Bear Park in Oakhurst.
They wanted to build a space where the community could reconnect with nature away from the hum of Highways 41 and 49.
Today, the Oakhurst River Parkway leads to vital community hubs including the Oakhurst Branch Library and Community Park, Fresno Flats Historic Village and Park and the schools along School Road from Oakhurst Elementary to Yosemite High.
“What started as a goal to restore natural resources has grown into a thriving ecological haven,” said Joelle Leder Rule. “Sandy’s passion for creating accessible green space has provided Eastern Madera County with a sanctuary for both people and wildlife.”
The Parkway is a recognized hot spot for biodiversity, home to more than 260 species of flora and fauna including a diverse avian population from blue herons and Cassin’s finches to owls, with designated viewing areas to watch beavers and butterflies in the riparian forest.
Supporters said Brinley’s impact on Oakhurst extends far beyond the riverbanks. She’s always played a vital role in keeping the community connected.
A group gathered to dedicate Teddy Bear Park in honor of Sandy Brinley.
Brinley served more than four decades before retiring from Sierra Telephone and has been a member of Soroptimist International of the Sierras for 35 years.
The Oakhurst River Parkway trail is a legacy brought forth in Brinley’s lifetime.
“Sandy’s work ensured that even during the heat of a California summer, residents have a cool, quiet and restful place to walk their dogs, jog or simply breathe.”
The greenway on Road 426 near Sierra Tel is now known as “Teddy Bear Park, dedicated to Sandy Brinley.”
And, fittingly, the bear holds a rake and a phone.
For more information, visit https:// www.oakhurstriverparkway.com/
From left, Sandy Brinley and Joelle Leder Rule.
Responses (0)