Fanno Creek, between Denney Road and Hall Boulevard, is flanked by residential development to the west and light industry to the east. The re-meandered creek, new timber footbridge and native plantings have improved access for the thousands of people who live and work near Fanno Creek. Restoration has also enhanced habitat for fish, beaver, birds and other wildlife.

A new timber footbridge, funded by Metro and installed in Summer 2020, replaced two undersized culverts. Removal of the culverts improves fish passage through this stretch of Fanno Creek and reduce flooding along the pedestrian path.

Without its natural curves, the straightened creek had developed unnaturally steep banks lined with invasive plants and prone to erosion.  

Re-establishing the creek’s natural flow and replacing invasive plants with new native plantings will significantly decrease erosion and improve habitat.

The project team placed logs in the stream channel and wetland to enhance habitat. New plantings were strategically planned to attract beaver activity in more remote areas and deter in areas adjacent to walking trails.