Portland City Council Public Works Committee 05/26/26

The Portland City Council Public Works Committee met on May 26, 2026, to discuss several key items related to public infrastructure and community projects. A major focus was the presentation and discussion of the 2045 Transportation System Plan (TSP) update by the Portland Bureau of Transportation (Peabot). The TSP update includes a financially constrained major capital projects list, which will guide transportation investments over the next 20 years, with a current funding projection of approximately $1.7 billion. The committee discussed equity considerations in project prioritization, compliance with state transportation planning rules, and community engagement efforts. Additionally, the committee considered and passed a motion recommending the renaming of Cesar E. Chavez Boulevard to Compinos Boulevard, honoring farm workers and immigrant communities, with the ordinance moving to the full council for approval. Other procurement-related discussions included authorization for Peabot to acquire property rights through eminent domain for the Southeast 174th Avenue Sidewalk Infill project, a $2.3 million capital improvement aimed at enhancing pedestrian safety and ADA accessibility. The committee also reviewed the Portland Parks and Recreation heritage tree program, recommending designation of 12 new heritage trees and removal of 14 due to decline or removal. Lastly, the committee received a briefing on the sewer system revenue bonds issuance and refinancing plans to support capital improvements and maintain strong financial metrics. Motions to advance relevant ordinances to the full council were passed during the meeting.