Restoration Creek, a Fanno Creek tributary, flows through Albert Kelly Park near Beaverton-Hillsdale Highway and SW 39th Avenue. The creek flows above ground through the upper northeast portion of the park, then drains into a pipe that carries the water through the lower southwest portion of the park.

Piping small headwater streams significantly changes stream function. Water moves much faster through a smooth, straight pipe than it would naturally through a complex stream channel connected to a floodplain.

Environmental Services has completed construction of a project to remove a portion of the pipe, bring Restoration Creek back to the surface, and restore natural stream function. Daylighting streams that are in underground pipes brings the flow back to the surface and helps slow stormwater runoff.

Project partners and stakeholders are Portland Parks & Recreation, Bridlemile Neighborhood Association, and SW Trails.

Construction Schedule

Construction is complete. In November, crews installed a new split rail fence around the new stream and riparian area, and community members partnered on a planting day to install the native plants. Thanks to all of the volunteers for their hard work!

For More Information

A fact sheet on the project is available or contact Becky Tillson at 503-823-7097 or Becky.Tillson@portlandoregon.gov with any questions or comments. 

Photos

Below are some photos of the site before construction and during tree removal - check in soon for more construction photos! (Hover over each photo for a description and more detail.)