December 16, 2015

Making sure our drinking water system is ready for the “Big One” is a top priority for the Portland Water Bureau.

Today, the Council took an important step toward strengthening our system and preparing it for an earthquake: authorizing the Water Bureau to seek proposals to install a 4,000-foot reinforced pipe 80 feet below the Willamette River.

Together with the Washington Park Reservoir Improvements Project, the Willamette River Crossing represents major seismic upgrades to the most vulnerable areas of the Portland’s water system.

Both projects are critical to ensuring that our Bull Run water can travel to Portland’s west side, which includes all of downtown.

These investments will strengthen the City’s seismic resilience, and ensure the Water Bureau can continue to deliver high-quality, safe, and reliable drinking water at all times – even after the “Big One.”