Join Vanport Flood survivor, Ed Washington, Columbia Slough Watershed Council and Urban Flood Safety & Water Quality District for a free educational talk and ~12 mile bike tour of Portland’s flood safety system - free dinner included!  

A system of flood control infrastructure – hidden in plain sight – protects our region from major disasters. On this slow paced ride, participants will explore this system which protects homes, businesses, airports, and critical community services from flooding. Following voter approval of a flood safety bond measure this past Spring, learn about the plan to upgrade this system to meet Federal safety standards and to prepare for extreme weather events associated with climate change. We will also be discussing the Vanport Flood of 1948 and the lasting impacts on communities then and today. This event is best suited for those 14 and older, minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Route & Getting There: This is a one way ride that begins at Aloft near the Cascade MAX Station, and ends at the Delta Park/Vanport MAX Station. Free parking is available on site at Aloft, as well as at our end location. Check in and dinner begin at 5:15pm, ride begins at 6pm.

What to bring: Pack along water, any necessary snacks and come prepared for the weather - we will be riding rain or shine. Helmets will be required for all riders throughout the event. Free dinner will be provided by the Urban Flood Safety & Water Quality District at the beginning of the ride.

Accessibility: A restroom will be available at the beginning of the ride. Most of the route is located on multi-use paths and other protected bike infrastructure and sidewalks. There will be some gravel areas we will ride through.