New Search
Willamette River / Canoe Canal <br /> Recreational and Environmental Enhancement Project <br /> Preliminary Research Findings January 16, 2008 <br /> Background <br /> Over the past few months, there has been growing staff and community interest in implementing <br /> a project that improves both recreational and natural resource values associated with the <br /> Willamette River (near the I -5 bridge) and the canoe canal in Alton Baker Park. In response to <br /> this interest, an inter - departmental team assembled in September 2007 to discuss possible <br /> improvements. Due to the complexity of the project, the group agreed to undertake preliminary <br /> fact - finding efforts to support development of a scope and likely cost scenario for a larger <br /> feasibility study. The intent was to inform ourselves enough to understand the broad feasibility of <br /> the proposals, answer a number of relevant questions, and craft a scope that would tailor services <br /> to the specific needs of the project. This summary outlines the results of this effort. <br /> Technical Feasibility <br /> Discussions with consultants from InterFluve, HDR, and Whitewater Design Group indicate that <br /> combined recreational and environmental enhancements to the Canoe Canal and the Millrace <br /> Dam structure in the Willamette River are very likely technically feasible. <br /> Consultant work to assess feasibility of similar projects in other communities, for example Bend <br /> and Grants Pass, has supported technical feasibility, as well. These efforts, however, have thus <br /> far only resulted in conceptual illustrations showing hydraulic alterations to river structures for <br /> improved recreational and fish passage. No project in Oregon has moved beyond conceptual <br /> design work, undergone detailed technical investigation, or engaged regulatory issues through the <br /> permit process. <br /> Permitting <br /> Extensive permitting will be required, and close coordination with permitting agencies during the <br /> design process is essential. Preliminary feedback shows that, if the projects are designed with <br /> sensitivity and benefit to habitat (especially fish passage) regulators are likely to be supportive. <br /> Agency staff has been identified who can work with the community as the project develops. <br /> Preliminary conversations are still underway. <br /> Plans would likely need to be resolved to about the 30% construction design stage prior to <br /> submitting for permits. In addition, some regulators will require special reports (e.g., biological <br /> assessment) for official consultation can take place. Thus, the participation of some regulators <br /> will be somewhat limited in preliminary stages of design. The permitting process is likely to take <br /> about 18 months, once design and reports are complete. <br /> Public Involvement and Partnerships <br /> Lessons from other communities strongly point to the need for thorough public involvement early <br /> in the process to make sure the scope of technical services is aimed in a direction the community <br /> supports. It would be important to get feedback on a variety of proposals and options which <br /> could solidify into a single, multi -phase plan for waterway enhancements. Some technical <br />