Evergreen Field

Evergreen Field (FAA LID: 59S) emerged in August 1944, a product of wartime expansion and a growing need for aviation infrastructure. Roy C. Sugg's successful permit application to the Clark County planning commission for an airport on Mill Plain Road, situated 'seven miles east of Vancouver,' laid the groundwork for this significant local landmark.

The strategic location, northeast of the intersection of Southeast Mill Plain Boulevard and Southeast 136th Avenue, placed it in a developing area ripe for such an enterprise. The subsequent sale to Wally Olson in 1945 marked the beginning of a new chapter, ushering in decades of operation that would shape the local landscape and aviation culture. The establishment of Evergreen Field was not merely the creation of a landing strip; it was the inception of a community focal point that would foster a unique blend of aviation enthusiasts and residents.

From 1964 onwards, Evergreen Field became synonymous with the Northwest Antique Airplane Club (NWAAC) and the highly anticipated Evergreen Fly-In. This period cemented the airport's identity as a sanctuary for vintage aircraft and a vibrant gathering place for pilots and aviation aficionados. The annual fly-ins were more than just displays; they were cultural events that celebrated the rich history of flight, drawing crowds and fostering a deep appreciation for classic aviation.

The integration of aviation into residential life reached its zenith with the establishment of a residential airpark adjacent to the airport in April 1968. This innovative concept allowed residents to live in close proximity to their aircraft, creating a lifestyle where the sky was an extension of their backyard. This unique development fostered a strong sense of community among those who shared a passion for aviation, blurring the lines between home and hangar.

The operational life of Evergreen Field concluded in July 2006, following the passing of Wally Olson in July 1997, after which his family continued to manage the facility. The closure, however, did not signal the complete end of aviation activity in the area. A protracted four-year legal battle culminated in 1997, resulting in a crucial decision that allowed the Evergreen North-South Airpark to continue its operations independently.

This legal precedent underscored the enduring appeal and viability of the residential airpark concept, even as the larger airport facility ceased to function. The persistence of the airpark demonstrated the deep-rooted connection between the residents and their aviation-centric lifestyle, a testament to the unique community that had formed around Evergreen Field.

Following its closure, Evergreen Field became a subject of significant economic interest. Reports indicated the property was being eyed for a substantial redevelopment, with a reported sale price of $15 million. However, a more ambitious $215 million redevelopment deal ultimately fell through in 2007.

This financial fluctuation highlights the complex economic forces at play in land development and the challenges of realizing large-scale projects. While Evergreen Field is no longer an active airport, its legacy endures through the continued operation of the adjacent airpark and the collective memory of its decades as a vital center for aviation in the Vancouver area. Its story serves as a case study in the evolution of aviation infrastructure and its impact on community development.