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Project overview
Last updated March 18, 2024
We are replacing 2,200 feet of aging pipe with earthquake-resistant pipe, installing backflow devices, replacing five existing fire hydrants and adding one hydrant to the south side of Jantzen Beach. Construction began in December 2023 and will continue through May 2024.
- Make the water system more resilient in an earthquake
- Protect the water system from contaminants from backflow
- Improve water flow and supply to fight fires
What's happening now
- Once we’ve connected the new main to the water system, we will connect the individual services.
- We may need to briefly turn off your water to connect your service to the new water main.
- Our goal is to alert you of a water shutoff at least 24 hours in advance so you can prepare for this service disruption.
What's happening next
- Once we have connected individual services to the new water main, the trenches will be filled in and plates or temporary patching will be placed over the road to ensure they are safe to travel over.
- Final paving will happen after all the services have been connected and the schedule aligns with the paving contractor's availability.
What to expect
- Work hours are from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- During construction hours, you can expect noise from saws, excavators, dump trucks, concrete pump trucks, and generators.
- Crews will work to mitigate any traffic obstructions on North Jantzen Avenue. Any road closures or parking limitations will be communicated to residents.
- Gate access for crews during construction hours has been approved. Expect to see crews on or around private property.
- Inclement weather may alter the construction timeline and activities.
Where
North Jantzen Avenue from Pavilion Avenue west to the dead end. Some work will also take place to the north of the dead end on private property.
Why
Fixing aging pipes
The water mains of a certain age and material in the area have a history of leaks and breaks that need to be replaced. The pipes were made during a time when people didn't know about the danger of using the asbestos in the coating around the outside of the pipe. Even though asbestos can't get into the drinking water, it poses a hazard to our crews when they make repairs on the outside of the pipe. Crews will be taking necessary precautions when connecting to the existing system and disposing of existing pipe materials.
Helping pipes endure ground movement
The earthquake-resistant ductile iron pipe we're installing will be safer to maintain. It will also make the system more seismically resilient in case of an earthquake.
Preparing to fight fires
New fire hydrants will improve firefighters' access to water and help the bureau continue to meet state fire codes.
Protecting against contamination
In addition to the leaking main, several water services in the area lack backflow devices. These devices are required by law to keep our water supply safe from contaminants. We will install backflow devices on services that need them to bring them up to City code. This will make sure your water stays clean even if there is an unexpected reverse of water flow. Learn more about backflow.
Upgrading our maps for future work
Last but not least, replacing the main will help us locate water mains and services so we can maintain and repair them more efficiently in the future.
What to do if you are experiencing water disruptions or changes?
The Portland Water Bureau’s mission is to serve excellent water every minute of every day. If that isn’t happening, we want to know about it!
Experiencing a water emergency?
Is there water running from streets or sidewalks or in your home or basement? Please call the Water Bureau’s 24-hour Emergency Line at 503-823-4874, email dispatch@portlandoregon.gov or visit Report water service problem | Portland.gov for more information.
Concerned about water quality?
Want to report discolored water, water that tastes or smells bad, water pressure that's too high or too low, or no water at the tap? Our water quality specialists can help!
Contact the Water Quality Line at wbwaterline@portlandoregon.gov or 503-823-7525.
The Water Quality Line operates Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If you contact us outside of these hours, we will respond the next business day.
Do you suspect you have a water leak?
Learn how to detect leaks at your home or business with this guide from the water efficiency team.