In fewer than 20 years, Willamette River water may flow from faucets and sprinkler heads, fuel businesses and water fountains, and course through a maze of pipes to customers throughout Washington County.

The Hillsboro Utilities Commission will vote on a preferred secondary water source for Oregon’s fifth-largest city on Tuesday.

After a three-year study, the Willamette River near Wilsonville “clearly demonstrated” the best option to meet a water demand that city officials say will be necessary as soon as 2025, according to a staff report.

The majority of Oregon’s residents live within 20 miles of the Willamette, the 13th largest river by volume in the lower 48 states.

More than a decade after Wilsonville opened what was then a controversial plant to tap the mighty river, there is little resistance from environmental advocates or the populace as the suburb plans for the future.

Hillsboro doesn’t have water rights on the river but it does have connections, Water Department Director Kevin Hanway said.

Continue reading Hillsboro’s trek to the Willamette River could begin soon, others to follow as suburbs plan for growth →