WES to relocate and upsize Willamette Pump Station; force main work to disrupt Willamette Falls Drive

Clackamas Water Environment Services told the council that the Willamette Pump Station, built in 1986 and now handling roughly 45% of West Linn's flow, needs a full refurbishment and relocation because of poor soil conditions and liquefaction risk in a major earthquake. "It's on very poor soil, liquefaction type situation if there's a big earthquake," Director Greg Geist said, explaining why WES will move the station north onto land WES already owns and work with the city on permitting.

WES described the project in two phases: the force-main portion will begin in August 2027 and take about a year; the pump station construction is expected to begin in October 2028 with roughly a one-year construction window for the station itself. Geist said staff plan to start the force-main work up 4th Street and along Willamette Falls Drive and that the project will be disruptive to businesses and residents along that corridor.

Staff emphasized extensive outreach, noting engagement with property owners and neighborhood associations since 2023, direct mail in 2025, interviews with affected businesses and residents earlier in 2026, and planned neighborhood presentations in August 2026. Council and WES agreed to continue public engagement and refine mitigation steps to reduce construction impacts for residents, and WES asked that the city assist with permitting and coordination.

WES said more detailed project permits and scheduling will be shared in upcoming neighborhood meetings; councilors also discussed possible site tours for elected officials to better understand the scope of work.