1) Train derailment could disrupt neighborhood traffic
2) Polish Festival returns to Overlook
1) Train derailment could disrupt neighborhood traffic
Two locomotives and three tank cars containing liquefied petroleum gas derailed in the Overlook Neighborhood on Saturday. None of the tanks leaked, according to news reports.
During the accident, the train struck and cracked a support beam to the N Going Street Bridge, which provides access to Swan Island. Going was closed for much of Saturday and Sunday and access to Swan Island is still inhibited.
As of Sunday afternoon, two traffic lanes on the bridge have opened, one in each direction. The multi-use path that provides bicycle and pedestrian access on the north side of the bridge also is open. (Note: The detour route on N River Street is now closed.)
With traffic constricted going into the week, drivers should expect significant congestion and travel delays in the area. Structural engineers with the Portland Bureau of Transportation continue to assess the bridge damage. There is no timeline for when the other traffic lanes might re-open. It could take weeks or months to repair the bridge, according to PBOT.
Overlook drivers are advised to find alternate routes that avoid the Greeley-Going interchange until safety issues are resolved.
OKNA will share information through this email list. If you’d like to receive email updates directly from PBOT, sign up here.
2) Polish Festival returns to Overlook
The 26th annual Polish Festival returns to Overlook Sept. 21-22. This celebration of Polish heritage features live music, folk dancing, polka contests, traditional Polish food and beer, vendors and kids attractions.
The Polish Association & Polish Church organize the annual event on N Interstate Avenue near the Failing pedestrian bridge. Join your neighbors and new friends from all across Portland for some pierogi and fun.
3) OKNA board elections
The Overlook Neighborhood Association board elections will hold its board elections on Tuesday, Sept. 17. If you’d like to run for the board and appear on the ballot, send a note to chair@overlookneighbohood.org by this coming Tuesday. Candidates also can declare at the meeting.
The elections will take place at the September general meeting, which will be held at the Kaiser Town Hall at 6:30 p.m. Look for a candidate list and full agenda in next week’s update.