Two Otak Projects Recognized at ACEC OR 2026 Awards

February, 2026

Multidisciplinary, multi-phase expertise was recognized at this year’s ACEC Oregon awards, with two Otak projects earning honors from the American Council of Engineering Companies Oregon Chapter. Work to reduce flooding by adding green stormwater infrastructure in a unique neighborhood setting was highlighted with a Small Project Award for the Upper Kellogg Creek Capital Improvements, while an Honor Award for the design and planning around 1^st and Strand showcased upgrades aimed at growing the downtown waterfront of St. Helens, Washington.

As an organization committed to advancing the industry, ACEC holds the annual awards to recognize engineering firms for projects that demonstrate an exceptional degree of innovation, complexity, achievement, and value. A closer look at these two projects, adding to a list of award-winning work, and their impact on surrounding communities can be found below.

Upper Kellogg Stormwater Management & Capital Improvements – Small Project Award

With a unique application of green stormwater infrastructure in a residential neighborhood setting, work on Upper Kellogg Creek addressed chronic flooding for the surrounding community while also enhancing its natural habitat. Initial capital improvement planning led to a design that connects a restored stream with an updated roadway stormwater system to eliminate the frequency of flooding issues during storm events.

1^st and Strand: St. Helens Waterfront – Honor Award

Transforming an old mill site into a walkable, multimodal public space that sets up the downtown St. Helens waterfront for future growth was the basis of a planning effort and subsequent transportation design for the area. A new multiuse path and roundabout along with the added ability to close off a portion of the street for festivals reduces congestion in the area, supporting public use and continued economic growth.