The Willamette River Crossing project is currently in the design and exploration phase. We completed a geotechnical probe in August 2020, and are performing more geotechnical exploration to choose the best tunneling technology and route to cross the Willamette River.
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Overview
In August, we finished work with our geotechnical probe, or geoprobe. The team is now using results from that probe to plan the next phase of the project. The geoprobe showed that we need more information to choose the best tunneling technology and route across the Willamette River. We will likely have to change the planned depth or drilling technologies to move the project forward.
Changing depth: If we go deeper, we can get below a layer of loose gravels that was a challenge during the geoprobe. To go deeper, we must collect more information about the soil there.
Changing technology: Another option is to use a different drilling technology that can move through the cobbles without going deeper. So while we are sampling deeper soils, we are also measuring information that will show us whether the new technology would work.
Our contractor will use all of this information to design and construct the pipeline. To collect the new information, our design/build contractor drilled and sampled in the Willamette River and nearby on the east and west sides of the river during January to March of 2021. The team is currently analyzing that information to determine next steps.
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
Crews collected soil samples to gather more information about soil deep underground using a sonic drill rig.
Soil Sampling near RiverPlace
Crews collected soil samples in three locations near RiverPlace: from the grassy area between the esplanade and the river, in the grassy area between S Harbor Way and S Harbor Drive, and near the traffic circle on S Montgomery.
In January and February, the Water Bureau also performed maintenance work near RiverPlace as part of a different project. Learn more about the South Harbor Way Water Main Replacement project here.
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. In addition to street work, our crews are installing 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
Soil Sampling
Crews collected soil samples to gather more information about soil deep underground using a sonic drill rig.
OMSI parking lot and SE Stephens Street
Crews collected samples in the parking lot near OMSI, near SE Water Avenue, and at four points along SE Stephens Street.
Eastside Connection Update
Starting in the winter of 2021/2022, 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.
Willamette River Activities
In January and February, we sampled the soil under the Willamette River near the Marquam Bridge.