Turf work begins at Waterfront Park

PORTLAND, Ore. - Summertime is winding down and that means one thing for Gov. Tom McCall Waterfront Park in downtown Portland - it's time to get the turf back in shape.

After a busy season of events, the ground needs some renovation and crews got busy on Monday getting the project started. If you head down there, you'll notice fencing is now up and there are signs that tell you about the work that is getting under way.

Right now, crews are working on the main lawn area from the Morrison Bridge south to the Salmon Springs fountain.

Coming up on Sept. 17,  after the Komen Race for the Cure, work will begin near Ankeny Plaza next to the Legacy Fountain in the Saturday Market area.

That part of the park will be getting something special. Tiny fibers will be added to the turf, along with an underground grid that will support heavy trucks, vehicles and equipment. The work should be done by mid-October.

• Map showing the work areas (pdf)

The Cost

Half of the project's $320,000 price tag is being paid by the city. The other half is coming from some of the bigger events that have been held at the waterfront, like the Portland Rose Festival, which donated $100,000 to help pay for the renovation.

Other major festivals contributed with permitting fees, including the Shamrock Run, PGSCA Cinco de Mayo Fiesta, Oregon Humane Society Doggie Dash, NW Pride Festival, Oregon Brewer's Festival, Special Olympic's/The Bite of Oregon, and the Komen Race for the Cure.