Sinkhole Response and Sewer Repair on SW 17th Avenue

News Article

Environmental Services has responded to and is actively monitoring a sinkhole that developed on SW 17th Avenue between SW Columbia and SW Clay streets. The sinkhole exposed a cavity beneath the roadway, revealing damage to a brick-constructed sewer line built in 1889.

Crews have stabilized the sinkhole, secured the area, and closed SW 17th Avenue between SW Clay Street and SW Columbia Street to vehicle traffic to ensure public safety. Sewer service in the area remains active and continues to function normally. Water service is not currently impacted. However, it is always a good time for residents to make sure theyhave an emergency drinking water supply available.

Environmental Services is developing a plan to repair the sewer. Work is expected to begin the week of April 28. In the meantime, the site is being regularly monitored to ensure it remains stable.

This page will be updated as work progresses or if conditions change.

About Environmental Services

Environmental Services - the City of Portland's sewer and stormwater utility - protects public health and the environment by collecting and recovering resources from the city's wastewater, managing stormwater, and restoring and protecting Portland's rivers, streams, and watersheds.