Overview
The Water Bureau has replaced its original 1894 reservoirs with a new 12.4-million-gallon, seismically reinforced underground reservoir. This reservoir supplies water to Portland's west side and serves more than 360,000 people, including all downtown businesses and residents, 20 schools, 5 hospital complexes, and more than 60 parks.
Currently we are working to install the reflecting pool and interpretive elements, restore historic structures and open the area to the public for the first time in decades.
Stay tuned for a grand opening celebration in spring of 2025!
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Construction happening now
Last updated December 9, 2024
- Testing the cascading water feature at the new reflecting pool
- Installing refurbished historic light fixtures throughout the construction site
- Installing interpretive glass panels that will tell the history of the area and reservoir construction
- Installing lighting and handrails to ensure public safety
- Landscaping the area by planting trees, placing topsoil and mulch, installing irrigation, planting native species, and working to prevent invasive species from entering the landscape
View a 360-degree panorama taken from the Reservoir 3 dam
Please note, some construction activities taking place will require early morning construction. A noise variance has been approved, allowing work to start at 5 a.m. on days when necessary.
Safety notice
Roads closures have ended, but construction at the Washington Park Reservoir is not yet complete.
The traveling public is reminded to stay alert and use caution when driving, walking, or biking near the construction area. Please follow all signage and crew instructions.
If you see concerning behavior within the park, please report this to 311 or call 911.
Getting to Washington Park
Plan your visit at ExploreWashingtonPark.org. Pay to park using the Parking Kitty app or at pay stations.
The Washington Park Free Shuttle runs a loop inside the park daily and stops at the Washington Park MAX Station. Use the real-time shuttle tracker to check its location and schedule. All shuttles are ADA accessible.
Visitors are encouraged to take MAX, TriMet bus service, or rideshare service to Washington Park. Make your transit plans here, refer to trimet.org for route and schedule changes.