See something we could improve on this page? Give website feedback.
Label:
Emergency ordinance
*Authorize one-time exception to Title 17 Underground Wiring Districts Code to allow for the placement of electrical conduit and lighting in the public right of way on NW 3rd Ave between NW Couch St and NW Davis St (allow exception to Code Section 17.60.020)
Passed
The City of Portland ordains:
Section 1. The Council finds:
- The City, through the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), manages the public right-of-way to shape a livable city for all. The Old Town China Town Association (OCTA) project encourages positive activation of the right of way by using over-the-roadway illuminated lanterns In Old Town’s Chinatown-Japantown Historic District will celebrate the neighborhood’s Chinese and Japanese history, add festive color and additional lighting for public safety.
- PBOT has partnered with OCTA to activate Old Town by allowing the installation of illuminated lanterns across the roadway to enhance livability and economic vitality of the district.
- The pilot project is located in Skidmore/Old Town Historic District and the New Chinatown/Japantown Historic District. OCTA and staff, therefore, briefed the Portland Historic Landmarks Commission on November 14, 2022, and received their support for the project.
- Per Portland City Code (PCC) Chapter 17.60 Underground Wiring Districts, overhead wires and conduit on the street are prohibited in underground wiring districts in the City of Portland (PCC 17.60.020). This project occurs on NW Third Avenue between Couch and Davis Streets in District A of the Underground Wiring District as shown in Exhibit A. Approval of this ordinance would permit the one-time exception to PCC 17.60.020 Overhead Wires Prohibited for electrical conduit and lighting across commercial streets adjacent to.
NOW, THEREFORE, the Council directs:
- A one-time exception to City Code Section 17.60.020 to allow for the placement of electrical conduit and lighting in the right of way in Old Town; subject to all reviews, approvals, and permits as required by the City of Portland.
Section 2. The Council declares that an emergency exists because a delay would unnecessarily delay the City's ability to perform the activities in a timely manner; therefore, this Ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage by the Council.
Official record (Efiles)
An ordinance when passed by the Council shall be signed by the Auditor. It shall be carefully filed and preserved
in the custody of the Auditor (City Charter Chapter 2 Article 1 Section 2-122)
Passed by Council
Auditor of the City of Portland
Mary Hull Caballero
Impact Statement
Purpose of proposed legislation and background information
- To waive Title 17.60.020 Underground Wiring District to allow the placement of electrical conduit and lighting for the Old Town project.
Financial and budgetary impacts
- There is no financial or budgetary impact for this specific waiver of the code.
Community impacts and community involvement
- This project envisions bringing activity and vibrancy to a challenging part of the Central City. The City is partnering with the Old Town Community Association to assist small business owners and District residents in the revitalization of Old Town. Over-the-roadway illuminated lanterns In Old Town’s Chinatown-Japantown Historic District will celebrate the neighborhood’s Chinese and Japanese heritage, add festive color and additional lighting for public safety.
100% renewable goal
Not applicable.
Financial and budget analysis
Analysis provided by City Budget Office
No fiscal impact.