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Bull Run Treatment Projects Update - August 2026

Bull Run Treatment
Newsletter
Please read our August 2026 Bull Run Treatment Projects Update.

Portland Water Bureau returns to 100 percent Bull Run water following routine groundwater maintenance

Water
Press release
On August 4, we activated the Columbia South Shore Well Field for a routine maintenance operation. That operation is now complete, and we are returning to providing 100 percent Bull Run water.

Portland Water Bureau opens the Washington Park Reservoir to the public after a yearlong delay

Washington Park Reservoir Improvement Project
Press release
The Washington Park Reservoir, a seismically resilient underground reservoir, has been serving Portland's west side since 2021. The area on top of the reservoir is now home to a public space for the entire community to enjoy.

Drinking water summer: How we keep water flowing even when the weather is dry

Water
Blog post
Updated
The Portland Water Bureau monitors weather, water levels, and water use to ensure our customers have access to plenty of safe, clean drinking water all year. Thanks to careful planning and investment in two high-quality water sources, we’ll continue to meet our community’s needs for decades to come.

Vernon Micro-Hydroelectric Turbine returns to full power!

Water
Blog post
Our water system includes over 2,250 miles of pipe with millions of gallons of water flowing through them everyday. At Sabin HydroPark, we're using that water to generate electricity. Thanks in part to the Portland Clean Energy Fund, that mirco-hydroelectric system is back to full power!

Portland Water Bureau begins routine groundwater system activation

Water
Press release
On August 4, we activated the Columbia South Shore Well Field for a routine maintenance operation. Operating our groundwater system proactively ensures it is ready when Portland needs it. Customers can expect to receive a blend of Bull Run water and Columbia South Shore Well Field water.

Bull Run Treatment Projects Update - July 2026

Bull Run Treatment
Newsletter
Please read our July 2026 Bull Run Treatment Projects Update.

The public comment period on an update to the Bull Run Watershed Management Unit Co-management Agreement is now closed

Water
Public notice
The City of Portland Water Bureau and the U.S. Forest Service invited comments on the draft update to the Bull Run Watershed Management Unit Co-Management Agreement through September 1, 2026. One comment on Sec. 2.9 Tribal Engagement/Consultation was received and we are working through a response.

Tips for your outdoor water use this summer

Water
Blog post
Before you uncoil the hose and break out the sprinkler, check out our tips for a water-wise summer. From advice about watering your lawn or garden to rebates and free water-saving devices, we cover what you need to know to save water and money this summer.

Bull Run Treatment Projects Update - June 2026

Bull Run Treatment
Newsletter
Please read our June 2026 Bull Run Treatment Projects Update.

Portland sewer, stormwater, and water rates to increase July 1, 2026

Portland Water Bureau customer service
News article
On July 1, sewer and stormwater rates will increase 5.15 percent and water rates will increase 8.1 percent. Together, these changes will increase the typical single-family residential customer's bill by 6.36 percent, or about $10.20 per month. Bills will also include a new Flood Safety Benefit Fee.

Main Street closing to repair Thompson Elk Fountain after minor truck collision

Water
Traffic advisory
Southwest Main Street is closed to driving traffic between Southwest 3rd Avenue and Southwest 4th Avenue.

Bull Run Treatment Projects Update - May 2026

Bull Run Treatment
Newsletter
Please read our May 2026 Bull Run Treatment Projects Update.

Powell Boulevard water main leak repaired after coordinated response

Water
Blog post
Thanks to quick action and strong coordination between Portland Water Bureau and City of Gresham crews, a major leak in one of Portland’s largest water mains (pipes) was successfully located, excavated, evaluated and repaired in less than a day. Traffic lanes on Powell Boulevard have reopened.

Proposed Administrative Rule: Water and Water-Related User Rates, Charges, and Fees

Water
Public notice
Updated
The Portland Water Bureau is proposing a new administrative rule related to water rates, charges, and fees. These rules were previously included in the annual water rates ordinance. The public comment period ended at 5:00 p.m. on May 12, 2026.

Traffic advisory: Water leak investigation requires eastbound closure of Powell Blvd (Hwy 26) in Gresham area

Water
Traffic advisory
Updated
As of the morning of Wednesday, May 27, Powell Boulevard (Highway 26) is now reopen to normal traffic.

Cryptosporidium monitoring update

Water
News article
Detections from routine monitoring in the Bull Run. Customers do not need to take any additional precautions at this time.

Portland Water Bureau Returns to Primary Water Source, the Bull Run Watershed

Water
Press release
The Bull Run supply was temporarily augmented with groundwater to ensure ample water supply during conduit repair.

Portland Water Bureau activates groundwater system

Water
Press release
Updated
Groundwater will be used to ensure ample supply of drinking water during conduit repair. No action is needed by the public. The community's water supply remains safe to drink.

Traffic advisory: Street closes to prevent further vehicle damage to the Thompson Elk Fountain after minor truck collision

Water
Traffic advisory
Updated
Southwest Main Street is closed to driving traffic between Southwest 3rd Avenue and Southwest 4th Avenue.
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