NE Rocky Butte Sewer Project

Project Location

The public sewer pipe and maintenance holes are located on private property within public easements, adjacent to NE Rocky Butte Road.

View full size image of simplified map of NE Rocky Butte Sewer Project

Background

Design and investigation began in August 2023 after a sewage release at the south end of the project area. Originally, the project scope was to repair to 337 feet of pipe that was damaged by tree roots. After further investigation, the mainline sewer repair will extend north another 820 feet.

Tree roots, combined with lots of fats, oils, and grease (FOG), and wipes have damaged the public sewer pipe that is 55 years old.

Construction began in February 2025 and was completed in March 2025.

What You Can (and Can't) Flush

There are only three things you can safely flush down the toilet into the sewer system —pee, poo and (toilet) paper. Just remember those three as the three Ps that you can flush. And don't forget, "flushable" wipes are not really flushable. More information at portland.gov/bes/safe-flush.

View full size image of Wipes clog pipes: avoid sewer backups and protect your pipes! Dispose of these items in the trash, not the toilet. Disinfection wipes, baby wipes, towelettes, paper towels, and facial tissues.

This project will help protect the health of the Willamette River Watershed.