Earlier this week, an update on in-water work in Crystal Springs.  Now, some exciting happenings along the Willamette River:

Portland Parks & Recreation is working to complete Phase 1 of the South Waterfront Central District Greenway project, the riverbank restoration.  Environmental Services provides technical assistance and permitting expertise to this project.

Phase 1 includes: removal of contaminated soil, installation of retaining walls, shallow water and riparian habitat, a water access ramp and osprey pole. Phase 2 will add lawns, pedestrian and bicycle paths, seating, lighting and public art to the upland portion of the site.  The project balances public recreation and Willamette River health.  Shallow water habitat is critical for the recovery of native salmon and steelhead. 

High water levels delayed progress when Phase 1 started last summer.  Water levels have remained low (until recently) this year, and the contractor has finished the shallow water habitat and water access ramp.  At higher elevations, soil and irrigation are being placed to prepare for planting the riparian area later this fall.

Construction is currently on schedule.  Project managers are cautiously optimistic that Phase 1 construction will conclude in December. Fences will remain until the lawns are established, through June 2014.  For more information, visit Portland Parks & Recreation’s project page.