Updated February 8, 2021

Environmental Services, your sewer and stormwater utility, has completed construction on the expansion of the Texas Wetland near SW Texas St and 26th Avenue. The project, at the headwaters of Stephens Creek, includes a new stream bed, a wetland, retention ponds, a variety of native plantings, and a new connector trail for pedestrians. The site will help to clean and filter stormwater runoff before it flows into Stephens Creek and eventually the Willamette River.

Stay on designated trails to protect new plants

Since completion of the expansion of the Texas Wetland site, there have been multiple reports of people and pets using the wetlands as a recreation site. While it may look appealing to enter the wetland, doing so poses great risk to yourself and to the newly planted seeds and native plant starts. These new plants and seeds are very sensitive to disturbance and need time to become established. Please stay on the designated trails and sidewalks near the wetlands and enjoy them from afar.

Pick up after pets

Large amounts of dog waste have needed to be removed from the wetland. Please remember that pet waste is raw sewage and will pollute not only the wetland, but Stephens Creek and eventually the Willamette River.

We are asking for your help in nurturing a healthy Stephens Creek and Willamette River Watershed together. 

Construction Photos

New Connector Trail for Pedestrians

The project also completed a new walking bridge, linking the original Texas Wetlands with SW 25th Avenue. Be sure to check out the new artwork panels designed by students in the neighborhood.

The project also included an improved trail through the wetland and provides a connection to SW Texas Street. This neighborhoods near SW Texas to SW Capitol Hill Road, Hillsdale, and beyond.

About Stephens Creek

Stephens Creek runs from its headwaters near Hillsdale to the Willamette River just north of the Sellwood Bridge. It is unique in Portland in that it runs largely above ground. Smaller tributaries and springs feed the stream, in addition to stormwater runoff. Based on an understanding of southwest Portland’s unique geology, hydrology, and geography, Environmental Services is working with partners to improve and restore watershed health in Stephens Creek. A healthy watershed provides habitat for fish, birds, and other wildlife and delivers cold, clean water to the Willamette River.

For more information about Stephens Creek, got to: www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/stephenscreek.

For More Information

With questions, comments or for more information, contact Joe Tursi at Joe.Tursi@portlandoregon.gov or  503-823-5753.