Portland is experiencing a cultural shift towards embracing the Willamette River, driven by advocates like Willie Levenson of the Human Access Project. This change is evident in the popularity of events at locations such as Audrey McCall Beach, where community members engage in swimming and leisure activities. The river has become swimmable due to significant investment in infrastructure improvements, leading to increased public interest and interaction with the water. Levenson’s efforts have focused on restoring access to the river and fostering more opportunities for interaction with this natural resource.
"The work of Human Access Project is cultural change," Levenson told the Mercury. Portland's Willamette River is swimmable, thanks in large part to the city's $1.4 billion Big Pipe project, which eliminated most sewer overflows into the river.
Portland residents and leaders are now embracing the Willamette River. This enthusiasm reflects a cultural change that has taken place over the last few decades, largely due to passionate advocates.
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