Dear Valued Customers and Community Members,
Once construction is complete, which is currently expected in December 2026, the Taylors Ferry site will include two new reservoirs, a pump station, an operations building, and new pipelines. These facilities will work in coordination with the nearby Florence Lane and Garden Home reservoirs to store and deliver drinking water to customers in the Metzger area.
Initially, the new Taylors Ferry facilities will continue to receive drinking water purchased from the Portland Water Bureau. Once the new Willamette Water Supply System (WWSS) comes online and is fully integrated into TVWD’s water system, the Taylors Ferry facilities will receive water from this new supply system, which will draw water from the Willamette River near Wilsonville.
October Construction Progress
Last month, crews made steady progress on the new pump station, operations building, stormwater detention area, fencing, and landscaping.
Pump Station
Crews focused their efforts on the station's foundation, walls, roof, and interior systems, and installed plumbing and electrical systems, insulation, heating and ventilation components, siding, and roofing materials. The station's floor and generator pad were also completed.
When complete, the station will house four pumps: two to meet normal daily water demand and two additional high-flow pumps to support peak demand, helping maintain adequate water pressure and a reliable water supply throughout the service area.
Operations Building
At the new operations building near the north side of the reservoirs, crews installed plumbing fixtures, commercial cabinets, electrical equipment, concrete sidewalk, and overhead doors. The building will provide space for equipment storage and activities needed to operate and maintain the new facilities.
Stormwater Detention Area
Crews continued grading and landscaping the stormwater detention area between the pump station and operations building. Work included grading the slopes, and placing rock and topsoil to prepare for planting.
The detention area will temporarily collect rainwater runoff during storms and release it gradually. This helps manage drainage from the property and reduces the potential for erosion and impacts to nearby drainage systems.
Fencing, Grading, and Landscaping
Crews removed the existing fence and began installing a new 8-foot-tall, black vinyl-coated chain-link fence along the property's boundaries. Extending the fence to the real property line helps secure the water facilities, clearly define TVWD's property, and limit unauthorized access.
Grading work continued to establish the property's final ground elevations and ensure proper drainage.
Landscaping is mostly complete on the north slope near SW Florence Lane and will continue in other areas of the property. Landscape retaining wall were installed in various locations. Planned plantings include native trees and shrubs, such as Cascara, Shore Pine, Western White Pine, Bigleaf Maple, and Madrone, along with Arborvitae. These plantings will help stabilize the soil, improve the appearance of the site, and provide screening for nearby neighbors.
See the photos and video below for a closer look at the project's progress.
What’s Next
Over the next couple months, crews will complete the construction of the pump station, operations building, stormwater facilities, and other site improvements, including new fencing and landscaping around the property. Substantial completion – including startup of the new pump station – is now expected in December 2026.
Crews will also continue inspections, testing, site cleanup, and other work needed to prepare the new facilities for operation. The contractor will remain on site through early 2027 to complete minor construction activities and final site work.
What to Expect
No project-related water service interruptions are planned for nearby customers during November.
Please note that work may occasionally occur on weekends to maintain the project schedule, address critical construction activities, and keep progress moving toward timely project completion.
Neighbors near the construction site may notice:
- Sight: Large equipment, construction vehicles, and continued site cleanup.
- Sound: Construction noise from heavy equipment and backup alarms.
- Smell: Dust and diesel exhaust.
- Feel: Occasional ground vibrations during construction activities.
- Parking: Construction crews may park on nearby public streets in accordance with city regulations.
- Deliveries and services: Mail, package deliveries, and garbage collection will continue, although minor delays are possible.
- Drone use: A drone may be used to take photos and video to document construction progress.
Grand Opening in 2027
TVWD will host a Grand Opening in 2027 to celebrate the completed reservoirs, pump station, and operations building. Community members and partners will be invited to tour the facilities and learn how the project improves water system resilience, regional supply reliability, and consistent water pressure. Event details will be shared by mail, email, and the project webpage.
Questions?
Contact TVWD’s Communication Team:
Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to complete this important project. We appreciate our customers and neighbors as construction continues toward completion.
