By Brian Hoop
Anyone who walks, runs, or bikes on the one mile stretch of sidewalk along St. Helens Rd. between NW 107th Ave. and the North end of Bridge Ave. has probably noticed overgrown vegetation and debris make it difficult to pass through.
We invite neighbors whose houses adjoin St. Helens Road and those who use the sidewalk on a regular basis to join us at the Wednesday, May 1, 7 PM neighborhood meeting to discuss ongoing maintenance strategies for this stretch of sidewalk.
Property owners along public sidewalks are responsible for maintaining clearance, even if the sidewalk is at the bottom of the hill on the back side of the house. According to city code, 29.20.010 Outdoor Maintenance Requirements, Section K.1 – Obstructions to sidewalks:
“All sidewalks must be clear of obstructions by earth, rock, or vegetation from edge to edge and to an elevation of 7-1/2 feet above sidewalk level. For example, bushes that encroach on or over any part of a sidewalk area must be cut back or removed and limbs of trees that project over the sidewalk area at an elevation of less than 7‑1/2 feet above the sidewalk level must be removed.”
Melanie Edmonson, Senior Program Manager with PBOT shared, “I have done some extensive work on gathering information on who would be responsible for these locations. According to the maps that Code Enforcement and I have it looks like all these areas would be the resident’s responsibility.”
Edmonson said if community members are not willing to maintain sidewalks adjacent to their property, then code enforcement could investigate and issue fines if necessary.
Many neighbors along St. Helens Road may not be aware of this responsibility. As a frequent runner, I can attest that I pass by others walking their dogs, elderly couples, and students catching the school bus who have grown frustrated with the vegetation blocking the sidewalk.
The goal of the discussion will be to identify a proactive community-oriented strategy to engage with property owners along the sidewalk to figure out how we can all work together to clear the debris. Join us for a work party on Saturday, June 15 at 10 AM to help clear the Waldemere hill sidewalk. Gather at the bottom of the stairway on the 101st block at the end of NW Willark Ave.
For more info:
• Section 29.20.010 Outdoor Maintenance Requirements – see K.1. Obstruction to Sidewalks – https://www.portland.gov/code/29/20/010
• Reporting code violations – https://tinyurl.com/4vkvmucz or call 503-823-2633.
• Tree clearance for low-hanging trees from sidewalks – https://tinyurl.com/2hk697pf