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Bike the Levees: Historic Vanport Route

  • 1809 North Broadacre Road Portland, OR, 97217 United States (map)

Join Vanport Flood survivor, Ed Washington, Columbia Slough Watershed Council and Flood Safe Columbia River for a free educational talk and 7.5 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, and 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 event will start and end at 1809 N Broadacre Rd, Portland, OR 97217, a short ride from the Delta Park/Vanport MAX Station. Free parking is available on site. Check in and dinner begin at 5:30pm, event 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 Flood Safe Columbia River.

Accessibility: A restroom will be available along the ride. We will have a bike mechanic support with us during the ride, should any issues arise. This event is best suited for intermediate riders.