Portland Community College Metro Transit Training Center

Client: Portland Community College

Year: 2019 - 2023

Location: Portland, Oregon

Features:

  • Full site redevelopment, including a new multi-story educational facility and affordable housing.

  • Simultaneous geotechnical and environmental exploration for cost savings.

  • Addressing environmental hazards and buried debris within the building footprint.

  • Utilization of multiple drilling methods and advanced subsurface testing techniques.

  • Continuous consultation and construction oversight throughout the project lifecycle.

Project Summary

Central Engineering Services, in collaboration with Coles & Betts Environmental Consulting, provided comprehensive geotechnical and environmental services for the Portland Community College redevelopment project. The project encompassed the construction of a new multi-story Workforce Training Center and an affordable housing development. The site, previously occupied by a gas station, posed significant geotechnical and environmental challenges, which were addressed through coordinated exploration and remediation efforts. Central's expertise ensured cost-effective solutions, minimizing excavation while maintaining compliance with environmental regulations. Ongoing consultation and construction oversight will continue as the project progresses.

Scope of Work:

Central Engineering Services collaborated with Coles & Betts Environmental Consulting to assess and address both geotechnical and environmental challenges across the site. This joint effort enabled the identification and treatment of chemical contamination, followed by strategic removal and replacement of affected materials with minimal excavation. The project involved geotechnical and environmental evaluations across various site components, including educational buildings, multi-story residential structures, parking lots, roadways, and utilities.

Initial site explorations identified an area of fill and environmental contamination related to a former gas station, necessitating additional testing and remediation efforts. Multiple contract amendments were implemented to accommodate new findings and ensure compliance with project requirements. Deliverables included a comprehensive geotechnical investigation report, supplementary amendments, and permitting support.

Feature:

  • Employed diverse exploration techniques, including refraction microtremor (ReMi) profiling and heavy infiltration testing.

  • Conducted comprehensive foundation system design reviews and drainage recommendations.

  • Assisted in the development of permitting documentation to address discovered site conditions.

  • Provided subgrade evaluation and materials testing during construction phases.

  • Supported design modifications based on evolving project requirements and environmental concerns.

Results:

The Portland Community College redevelopment is a collaborative effort between PCC and Home Forward, aimed at transforming the site into a modern educational and residential hub. The phased development strategy allowed for the demolition of the existing Workforce Training Center following the completion of the new facility, making way for affordable housing construction. Central Engineering Services' continued involvement ensures quality assurance and adherence to geotechnical and environmental best practices throughout the project's progression.