Committee flags growing riverside encampment beneath 211 Bridge near Red Fox property

Members of the Estacada Traffic and Public Safety Committee reported on an established homeless encampment under the 211 Bridge behind the Red Fox/Casadero restaurant and asked public-safety staff to follow up with contact, outreach and site checks.

Vice Chair Dobbs, Councilor Blevins and other committee members described overgrown brush under the bridge, multiple tents and discarded trash visible in recent site photos. Mike, who spoke during the update, said the bank is “a niche” where people shelter and that the area, which he believes is Pacific Power & Light (PGE) property, is heavily vegetated and used overnight.

Speakers noted posted signs at the site (PG/E and ODOT postings were mentioned) but said they are not readily visible from the river and that early-morning encounters occur when people leave the bank to access nearby businesses. Committee members raised concerns about discarded drug paraphernalia and the safety of those camping, and requested that the new police chief incorporate the site in regular patrols and outreach. Committee members said they had informed Chief Mendoza (former chief) and expect the incoming chief, Turway, to be briefed.

Staff and committee members recommended a coordinated follow-up: a deputy or officer check the area, outreach to offer services, and assessment of private- versus utility-owned property before any removal. The committee did not vote on an enforcement action during the meeting.