Portland Launched ADA Curb Ramp Project in 2026
City agencies began multi-phase construction to improve intersection accessibility in the Buckman and Kerns neighborhoods.
Updated on Oct. 2, 2026 in Home Renovation
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In September 2026, Environmental Services and the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) began a citywide initiative to install ADA-compliant curb ramps. The project focuses on improving pedestrian accessibility within the Buckman and Kerns neighborhoods.
Why it matters
This infrastructure project aims to ensure safer, more equitable transit for all residents by bringing intersections up to modern accessibility standards. Upgrading these corners is a crucial step for local mobility and neighborhood inclusion.
Work at each corner typically requires one to two weeks to complete, with crews operating from 7 am to 3 pm on weekdays. The project boundaries stretch from NE Glisan Street south to SE Hawthorne Boulevard.
The players
Environmental Services
This is a Portland city bureau responsible for managing wastewater, stormwater, and watershed health.
Portland Bureau of Transportation
The city agency known as PBOT manages the maintenance, planning, and operation of Portland's street network and infrastructure.
The details
The construction process requires the removal of existing sidewalk, curb, and pavement sections to excavate for new ramps and warning panels. Crews may also remove trees if the excavation threatens the health or stability of existing root systems.
Timeline
Construction began in September 2026.
Work will continue in phases throughout the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
Roadmap
This project follows a pattern set by the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements for public infrastructure. The initiative represents a direct local application of federal accessibility mandates to update aging municipal infrastructure.
Residents living between 11th and 35th Avenues should expect periodic sidewalk closures and construction noise during weekday hours. Pedestrians may need to follow posted detours while crews replace curbs and pavement at their local intersections.
The takeaway
Ongoing infrastructure improvements serve as a vital reminder for residents to monitor local transportation updates for potential travel delays. Property owners near active sites should remain aware that tree health assessments may coincide with standard curb work.
Further reading
Learn more about local accessibility initiatives on the Portland Home Renovation page.
More information
View the current map of construction area for the project zone.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Southeast Examiner of Portland Oregon.
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