(June 16, 2020) – Construction begins this week on an urgent sewer repair project on N Mississippi Avenue, affecting travel between N Shaver and Fremont streets during weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and some Saturdays.

Environmental Services – the City of Portland’s sewer and stormwater utility – is replacing and expanding the size of a 100-year-old sewer main that is deteriorating and is too small for the area. The project will increase sewer capacity, which will reduce street flooding and sewer backups to area basements, and help protect public health, property, and the environment. 

To minimize the impact to businesses and the community, Environmental Services is making the repairs now, while traffic is lower during the COVID-19 “Stay at Home” order that continues for Multnomah County. Crews will work expanded hours from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. to shorten the overall construction schedule. Construction is expected to be complete within eight weeks. 

The traveling public is advised to expect some travel delays and street closures. To perform this work as quickly and safely as possible, the two-block stretch of Mississippi Avenue between Shaver and Fremont may be completely closed at times to vehicle traffic during work hours. Environmental Services will minimize the amount of time full street closures are needed.

The traveling public is advised to follow all traffic control signage. Sidewalks will remain open for pedestrian, wheelchair, and bicycle use. 

Environmental Services encourages the public to support local businesses during this time. Many N. Mississippi Avenue stores and restaurants will be open and accessible for pickup and delivery of food and drink. Some pickup areas may be on the adjacent side streets of N. Fremont, Beech, Failing and Shaver.

For project updates, visit: www.portlandoregon.gov/bes/NMississippi. 

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The City of Portland Bureau of Environmental Services - your sewer and stormwater utility - provides Portland residents with programs to protect water quality and public health, including wastewater collection and treatment, sewer construction and maintenance, stormwater management, and stream and watershed restoration.  Follow on Twitter - @BESPortland. On the web: portland.gov/bes/news 

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