The new round of demolition is the next step toward restoring public access to Willamette Falls
Oregon City, Ore. – The Confederated Tribes of Grand Ronde is taking a big step toward healing, connection and public access to Willamette Falls by beginning its fourth and most visible phase of demolition at its 23-acre property in Oregon City.
The latest round is slated to begin this week and will start the process of removing the old administration building located at 427 Main Street. Once completed, the Tribe hopes to begin Phase 1 of the infrastructure work on the site.
“We could not be more grateful or excited to see our continued progress at Willamette Falls,” said Cheryle A. Kennedy, Chairwoman of the Grand Ronde Tribe. “We’ve already come so far, and removing the administration building will bring us even closer to our vision. This important step gives us healing and hope for the future of our ancestral lands.”
The property will provide a mix of open space, retail, shopping, residential, office, restaurants, and a hotel and event space. It will become a vibrant pedestrian destination that includes access to the river’s edge, views of the restored native basalt riverbank and space for public and Tribal gatherings. This transformed site will provide important messages about the benefits of the natural environment, the value of nurturing restoration and the Tribe’s long-term commitment to healing.
The Tribe is working to minimize any disruption to residents during the 5-6 weeks of demolition. The Tribe recognizes the former administration building is a highly visible part of Oregon City history, and some residents may feel a connection to it. The Tribe is looking forward to welcoming the public to the new village and restored falls.
The property, which is part of Grand Ronde’s ancestral homelands, was acquired by the Tribe in 2019. Since then, the Tribe has made steady progress on its redevelopment – unveiling its new name, tumwata village, and demolishing approximately 40% of the site through three different phases.
Phase One of the demolition took place in 2021, with a second round following in 2022 and a third in 2023. This phase of demolition will not be the last. The Tribe anticipates additional demolition will be necessary to achieve Grand Ronde’s vision for the site, which includes environmental and cultural restoration, thoughtful new development, renewed economic prosperity and the Tribe continuing its role as stewards of the Falls.