Media-only Invitation: See The Thompson Elk Statue Return To Its New And Improved Fountain Base On Thursday (Photo) - 04/08/26
PORTLAND, Ore. – Media are invited to see the popular Thompson Elk statue’s return to its fountain pedestal tomorrow, Thursday, April 9. Capture the statue making its way through downtown and being crane-lifted onto its perch ahead of Sunday’s official return celebration.
What: The Thompson Elk statue will be crane-lifted and installed on its perch.
When: Approximately 10am on Thursday, April 9, 2026. Exact time may vary due to traffic and weather conditions.
Where: Chapman and Lownsdale Squares, SW Main Street between Third and Fourth Avenues, in Downtown Portland
Who: David O’Longaigh, Portland Water Bureau Engineer, will speak about the journey from fountain planning to reconstruction.
Jessica Green of Portland Parks Foundation will discuss project fundraising and private partnership.
Kristin Calhoun of the Regional Arts & Culture Council will talk about statue restoration.
RSVP: Email brandon.zero@portlandoregon.gov or call 503-823-8064 to confirm attendance.
Note: Installation time may vary. Please RSVP to receive day-of-event updates. To keep the construction area safe and clear, the general public is not invited to this event.
Read more about the Thompson Elk’s return here.
Click here for a link to a folder of Thompson Elk digital assets.
About the Portland Water Bureau
The Portland Water Bureau serves water to almost a million people in the Portland area. Portland’s water system includes two great water sources, 54 tanks and reservoirs, and 2,250 miles of pipe. With 600 employees working on everything from water treatment to customer service, the Water Bureau is committed to serving excellent water every minute of every day.
About the Public Works Service Area
The Public Works Service Area keeps Portland running by managing the city’s water, sewer, stormwater, parks and transportation systems. It includes the Bureau of Environmental Services, the Portland Bureau of Transportation, Portland Parks & Recreation, and the Portland Water Bureau. Public Works ensures reliable infrastructure, invests in sustainability, and supports essential services that enhance daily life for Portlanders.
Access and accommodation
The City of Portland ensures meaningful access to City programs, services, and activities to comply with Civil Rights Title VI and ADA Title II laws and reasonably provides: translation, interpretation, modifications, accommodations, alternative formats, auxiliary aids and services. To request these services, or to file a complaint of discrimination, contact 503-823-4000 (311), Relay Service & TTY: 711, or 503-823-8064. Visit Portland Water Bureau’s Disability and Language Access page for more information.
503-823-4000 Translation and Interpretation
Traducción e Interpretación | Biên Dịch và Thông Dịch | अनुवादन तथा व्याख्या
口笔译服务 | Устный и письменный перевод | Turjumaad iyo Fasiraad
Письмовий і усний переклад | Traducere și interpretariat | Chiaku me Awewen Kapas
