Welcome to the Mayor Vera Katz Eastbank Esplanade, a remarkable pedestrian and bicycle path that runs along the east shore of the Willamette River in Portland, Oregon. This esplanade is not only a place of beauty and recreation but also a testament to Portland’s resilience and commitment to urban renewal.
The esplanade was established following the devastating Willamette Valley Flood of 1996, which washed out the existing Interstate 5 bicycle bypass. In response, city planners envisioned a new path that would not just replace what was lost but enhance access to the riverfront. Construction began in 1998, and the esplanade was officially opened to the public in May 2001, marking a new era of accessibility and recreation along the river.
Named after Vera Katz, Portland’s dynamic and influential mayor from 1993 to 2005, the esplanade honors her legacy and contributions to the city’s development. Katz was instrumental in many urban renewal projects, and her impact is remembered with a statue near the Hawthorne Bridge.
The Eastbank Esplanade is notable for its design and engineering feats. It features a 1,200-foot floating walkway, the longest of its kind in the United States, allowing visitors to enjoy a unique perspective of the river and city skyline. Public artworks such as the Alluvial Wall and the Ghost Ship sculpture add cultural depth to the experience.
The esplanade also plays a key role in connecting Portland’s neighborhoods. It stretches 1.5 miles, linking the Steel Bridge to the Hawthorne Bridge, and connects to the Springwater Corridor, a major trail system that extends further into the city and beyond.
Over the years, this vibrant space has hosted countless walkers, joggers, and cyclists, serving as a vital urban artery that brings people together. It’s a place where history, culture, and community converge, inviting all who visit to reflect on Portland’s past while enjoying its present.
As you walk or cycle along the esplanade, consider the stories of those who have shaped this city and the ongoing efforts to preserve its natural and urban landscapes. The Eastbank Esplanade is more than just a path—it’s a journey through Portland’s history.
