PGE can cut into Forest Park following Portland hearing officers’ decision

Published 10:55 am Tuesday, March 11, 2025

A Portland hearings officer has approved a utility company’s plans to cut through almost 5 acres of Forest Park, the city’s highly protected and locally beloved urban forest.

Portland General Electric plans to log about 400 trees within a section of intact, mature forest to relocate an existing power pole, install two new power poles and wire 1,400 feet of transmission lines.

Forest Park is one of the largest urban parks in the nation, spanning 5,200 acres in Northwest Portland. It provides important habitat for vulnerable species, particularly Northern red-legged frogs — as well as more than 80 miles of trails for Portlanders seeking easy nearby access to the wilderness.

PGE’s proposal has drawn fierce opposition from environmental groups and many residents, as well as the city of Portland itself. Earlier this year, the Portland Permitting & Development office recommended a hearings officer deny the project.

Oregon Public Broadcasting is a news partner of the Portland Tribune. Their full story can be found at opb.org.