The Willamette River Crossing project is currently in the design and exploration phase. We completed a geotechnical probe in August, and will perform more geotechnical exploration to choose the best tunneling technology and route to cross the Willamette River.
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Overview
The Willamette River Crossing project is currently in the design and exploration phase. After we completed a geotechnical probe in August of 2020, we learned that more geotechnical exploration is needed to choose the best tunneling technology and route to cross the Willamette River.
- We will do additional vertical borings in the area to better understand the soil conditions underground and evaluate alternatives.
- Our team is evaluating alternative construction sequences, different routes the pipe could take, and alternative tunneling technology.
- Our contractor will build on the information collected from the geotechnical probe and additional geotechnical surveys to design and construct the pipeline.
We’re continuing to work on critical infrastructure projects like the Willamette River Crossing during the pandemic. Contractors must follow all safe work zone and social distancing measures. Work may be delayed if staffing availability or construction resources change due to current events.
If you know people who live in, work in, or travel through the area, please inform them about this project:
- Tell them about our e-newsletter.
- Invite us to your community or business group for a project presentation.
- Share your comments and ask questions via email (wrx@portlandoregon.gov)
Westside activities
Upcoming work
Soil sampling
Our design/build contractor conducted a geotechnical probe, and we have been analyzing the results. The contractor needs to do more exploration work to find the best route underneath the river. We will likely need to drill for soil samples on the west side of the river, as we did in fall 2019. We will update this page to let you know where and when this work will happen.
Work at 1720 SW Naito Parkway
You may see workers in and near the parking lot at 1720 SW Naito Parkway. We’re temporarily sharing this site with the Bureau of Transportation while they work on the SW Naito Parkway Improvement Project, I-405 to Jefferson. We are helping them assess the best way to remove an old, unused pipe from the area where they are building a retaining wall. Our crews will return to the site in late 2020 or early 2021 to install connections between the existing water system and new pipe.
Parking lot and stairway closure
The parking lot and stairway at Southwest Naito Parkway between Southwest Harrison Street and Southwest Market Street are closed to the public for the duration of the project. Use the ADA-accessible ramp on the south end of the parking lot as a detour.
Eastside activities
Eastside business and residential outreach
Starting in spring 2021, we’ll work along Southeast 7th Avenue and along Southeast Harrison Street between Southeast 7th and 11th Avenues to connect the new underground pipe to the existing water system. As this will affect traffic, parking, and driveway access in the area, we’re working with local businesses and residents now to plan for their access needs.