On June 14, the Portland community will celebrate the grand reopening of the Washington Park Reservoirs! This milestone marks the culmination of years of planning, and the fusion of infrastructure, landscape, and legacy.

A New Reservoir Beneath a Restored Landscape

As one of Winterbrook Planning’s many Portland Water Bureau projects, we were honored to lead the land use tasks for this complex project. The design replaces aging reservoirs with a below-ground facility that is built to withstand landslides and earthquakes.

Above ground, the site features reflecting pools, rebuilt paths, and restored Romanesque dams and gatehouses. These visible elements recreate the character of the original open water features, while the underground reservoir ensures long-term resilience and compliance with EPA rules.

Planning Precision and Purpose

Winterbrook prepared and secured approvals for a consolidated Conditional Use and Historic Review application, which received favorable review from the Portland Landmarks Commission, the Hearings Officer, and the City Council almost exactly a decade ago. The complexity of this project—spanning historic, environmental, and public utility considerations—underscores the importance of integrated, forward-looking planning.

Washington Park reservoirs progress in Spring 2023

Bringing Olmsted’s Vision Back to Life

For the first time since the 1970s, the public can enjoy John Charles Olmsted’s vision of water as a peaceful, accessible feature in the city’s park system. His designs emphasized open views and relaxing natural spaces—something the community can now experience again.

The reservoir site was once fenced off for safety. Now, it has been transformed into a public space once more, reflecting Olmsted’s belief in parks as places of renewal and reflection.

We’re proud to have played a role in returning this beloved public space to the community—and we invite you to join us at the ribbon cutting ceremony on Saturday, June 14, from 10 a.m. to noon.

Save the date!