County approves temporary easement to fix low-density concrete causing runoff into Beaver Creek

The Multnomah County Board voted to authorize acquisition of a temporary construction easement at 1117 Southeast Troutdale Road to facilitate remediation of low-density cellular concrete that has been releasing a milky substance into Beaver Creek.

John Hendrickson, transportation division director and county engineer, described the Cochran Road low-density cellular concrete replacement project and said the easement would allow the county to remove the failing material and construct an environmentally sound replacement. He explained the material was installed as part of a 2019 bridge project and that an investigation had identified the material as the source of the milky substance in the creek. "This temporary easement is necessary to remove the low density concrete material and construct an environmentally sound replacement," Hendrickson said.

A public commenter asked about the square footage and any monetary terms; staff said the temporary easement would be approximately 7 square feet in the specific area needed for access and that the expected cost for the easement is less than $1,000, which would not require further board action. Staff added that if costs exceed $25,000 the project would return to the board.

Commissioners asked questions about the scope and costs; no substantive objections were raised. The board took a roll-call vote and adopted the resolution of necessity, authorizing county staff to begin negotiations to acquire the temporary construction easement and to proceed with the remediation work.

Board materials note the remediation is intended to prevent harm to protected species in Beaver Creek and to ensure an environmentally sound replacement for the fill material.