Updated June 09, 2020

Environmental Services, your sewer and stormwater utility, will soon begin construction on a project to expand the Texas Wetland near SW Texas Street and 26th Avenue. The project, at the headwaters of Stephens Creek, will include a new stream bed, a wetland, and native plantings. The site, which is currently an empty lot, will help to clean and filter stormwater runoff before it flows into Stephens Creek.

Construction will begin August 2020 and last until October 2020.

New Connector Trail for Pedestrians

The project will also include a reconfiguration of the current trail through the Texas Wetland, and provide a connection from SW Texas Street to a new pedestrian trail that will be constructed on the site to the east. This will help provide pedestrian connectivity from 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.

What To Expect During Construction

You can expect the following impacts and activities during construction:

• Construction hours are from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The contractor may schedule work during the same hours on Saturdays if needed.
• Construction creates noise, vibration, and dust and disrupts normal neighborhood activity.
• Local access to all properties will be maintained, but construction activities may impact normal use of your driveway or entrance to your business.
• You should expect traffic delays in and near the work area. Please observe traffic control signs and follow the directions of flaggers.
• Some equipment and materials may be stored on your street or nearby streets overnight.
• A city inspector will be on-site during work hours and may be able to assist you with an immediate need during construction.
• Sewer, water, and other utilities will remain in service during construction.  
• For translated material about what to expect during construction, please visit www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/constructionimpacts.

For More Information

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