Downtown Improvements
Project Updates
June 11, 2025- Trash can installation is underway. The old metal trash cans are being removed and replaced with the much larger easier to maintain trash receptacles.
April 22, 2025- Forest Grove Light & Power crews have removed concrete, installed new junction boxes, and installed new conductors at 13 tree locations along Main Street between Pacific Avenue and 21st Avenue. Tree removal is underway; however, a majority of the removed trees will be replaced with new plantings. We appreciate your patience as we work to revitalize and enhance the downtown area.
March 31, 2025- The Downtown Glow Up project is set to commence soon. Preliminary work in the downtown area is expected to begin as early as next week, led by local contractors. While we anticipate steady progress, delays may occur as with any major project. We are committed to keeping the community informed throughout the process. For updates, please check back here or visit our social media. We appreciate your patience and support as we work to enhance our downtown area.
Forest Grove Downtown Glow Up
Forest Grove is investing in essential upgrades and repairs to downtown as part of the Forest Grove Glow Up initiative. The focus of the Downtown Glow Up is the core downtown area, which was a federally funded enhanced streetscape project.
Our crews are working hard to create a safer, more enjoyable experience for everyone who visits, shops, and works in our vibrant downtown area. Community members will start noticing improvements in spring 2025. Thank you in advance for your patience as we bring these enhancements to life!
What to Expect
Tree & Sidewalk Improvements
Contractors will begin by trimming street trees and replacing those that pose risks to sidewalks and infrastructure. Damaged or uneven sidewalk panels will be repaired for a safer user experience. Additional trees will be planted during the planting season to beautify downtown. Out of 104 trees total within this area:
- 87 healthy trees will remain and be trimmed to maintain tree health.
- 19 trees will be removed and replaced.
- 2 new trees are being added.
- 4 trees will be removed to ensure safe traffic intersections and protect other nearby trees.
Tree wells (steel grates) are being replaced with a Flexible Porous Surface Treatment (FPST); a durable, eco-friendly material proven effective in other West Coast cities. This change enhances safety, as FPST is more stable than previous materials like pea gravel or wood chips and minimizes tripping hazards. The photo shows an example of the FPST material and maybe not reflect the final design.
New Public Trash Receptacles
Larger public trash bins, featuring the Forest Grove logo and colors, will be installed downtown. These bins are designed and selected to maintain a trash-free downtown area.
The new trash bins:
- are easier to maintain,
- include a flip style door for easier discard,
- have increased capacity (38% more!), and
- feature curved tops that keep items neatly in place.
Cleaner streets create a welcoming downtown!
Enhanced Electrical Access
Crews will install electrical outlets in tree wells to allow the trees to be lighted on Main between 21st and Pacific and on 21st between A and College to elevate the look and feel of the city, adding utility and charm to the streetscape. Downtown Forest Grove will be tree-lighting ready!
Funding for These Improvements
These downtown upgrades are funded through multiple sources, including the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), Urban Renewal Agency, Transit Lodging Tax, and the City Streetlight fund. The total cost of the project is under $500,000.