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Two Otak ‘Project of the Year’ Awards at APWA OR 2025 Fall Conference

The 2025 American Public Works Association (APWA) OR Fall Conference included two presentations by Otak experts and two more award-winning projects for the firm. Project of the Year honors highlighted the transportation design of 1st and Strand and the environmental design for the Springwater Wetland Restoration.

In addition to the accolades, a panel with water resources team leader Phil Kenyon focused on strategies that streamline collaboration between operations and engineering on projects while civil engineer team leader Keith Buisman shared an in-depth look at the design behind the award-winning 1st and Strand project. These sessions were followed by a wine tasting event where all proceeds went toward supporting the APWA Oregon Scholastic Foundation, advancing education opportunities in the industry.

Altogether, this year’s event followed a theme of “Public Works Unmasked.” It placed an emphasis on the details behind the work and ideas that were shared across the event’s activities. A closer look at the two Project of the Year winners can be found below.

About 1^st and Strand – Project of the Year (Transportation Category: $5 million – $25 million)

Situated along the downtown waterfront, work at 1^st and Strand set up the City of St. Helens for continued growth. An initial planning effort was followed by a transportation design that clearly defines this downtown core, both with infrastructure for growing business in the area and enhancing its use for the community.

Adjacent to City Hall and other public buildings, the streetscape design allows the area to host public events without disrupting traffic. The enhancements improve congestion, parking, and pedestrian access while also extending utilities that create shovel-ready sites for future development.

See the Project

About the Springwater Wetlands Restoration – Project of the Year (Environmental Category: $5 million – $25 million)

A reconnected floodplain was designed to improve flooding for the City of Portland with the restored Springwater Wetlands. This extensive example of green stormwater infrastructure in an urban environment also adds a natural area for natural habitat and public access with connection a regional trail system.

The project was informed by complex hydraulic modeling and environmental science to account for historic flooding events. Data from those studies were also used in designing public access amenities and several other community-focused features found throughout the site.

See the Project

Public Event Re-Introduces the Historic Astoria Library After a Comprehensive Renovation

A ribbon cutting event on Saturday, October 25, officially opened the newly renovated Astoria Library, re-introducing the public to this asset following its comprehensive renovation. Those in attendance learned more about the new features that added increased usable square footage, seismic resilience, upgraded utilities, community space, and inspiring works from local artists.

The occasion marked a conclusion to more than a year of construction that makes use of an $8 million bond and featured remarks from several community leaders, including the Mayor of Astoria, on the importance of this historic facility. As owner’s representative, the Otak project lead and group leader were in attendance to take part in the occasion.

“I’d say we are really excited for the community to see the new space… it doesn’t feel like the same building.”

– Suzanne Harold, Astoria Library Director

With a new children’s area and 9,000 square-foot basement that’s been converted into fully useable space, the day marked a celebration of the expansion of this vital community resource. It also served as an unveiling for several works of art found throughout the building as part of an overarching effort to honor the history of this coastal community, its ecosystem and wildlife, as well as indigenous cultures.

About the Astoria Library Renovation

For nearly 50 years, the Astoria Library served its community as it was originally constructed. After passage of an $8 million bond, efficiencies in managing the full $10 million budget allowed the renovation to go beyond improvements to accessibility, technology, and building systems, adding seismic resilience as well. Much of the work focused on expanding community use of the facility and enhancing its storage of historical items, including artifacts from the Lewis and Clark expedition that led to this location as the first settlement west of the Rockies.

Archives of newspapers, books, wanted posters, and other materials dating back hundreds of years are among the thousands of other assets kept on record. A new children’s area, teen room, and various meeting rooms add to the library’s public utility. Its location near the Oregon coast provided inspiration for several art installations found throughout the building. From a cedar panel carved with the image of a Chinook Tribe Member to murals with Indigenous and Chinese themes, the pieces together paint a picture of the area’s history.

Its location near the Oregon coast provided inspiration for several art installations found throughout the building. From a cedar panel carved with the image of a Chinook Tribe Member to murals with Indigenous and Chinese themes, the pieces together paint a picture of the area’s history.

Interior view of the renovated Astoria Library. — *Interior view of the renovated Astoria Library*

Otak project leads at the Astoria Library ribbon cutting event. — *Left to Right: Shawn Klinkner (Business Unit Leader), Brian Hardebeck (Project Manager)*

People gathered in the renovated Astoria Library in front of one of the local art installations. — *People gathered in front of one of the local art installations*

People browsing bookshelves in the newly reopened Astoria Library. — *People browsing bookshelves in the newly reopened Astoria Library*

Three New Otak Honorees Named at Women of Vision Awards 2025

Group photo of the 2025 DJC Oregon Women of Vision Award winners. — *Group photo of the 2025 DJC Oregon Women of Vision Award recipients.*

Members of the Pacific Northwest’s AEC industry gathered for the Daily Journal of Commerce (DJC) Oregon’s annual event where three experts from the Otak team were recognized for their accomplishments as women in the field. This year, the DJC Women of Vision Award recipients included Alex Cettie, Miki Bragg, and Mandy Flett.

The occasion marks the newest members of a long list of Otak women who have been honored over the past several years:

2024 – Kristen Ballou and Sarah Oaks
2023 – Saretta Tillmaand, Amanda Owings, Margaret Steinhilber
2022 – Millicent Williams
2021 – Tanya Boyer, Rachel Laura, Cathy Kraus
2020 – Serah Breakstone, Tina Keller, Angela Khosa-Marangwanda
2019 – Ashley Cantlon, Amy Scheckla-Cox, Teresa Huntsinger

Learn more about all three and see what peers had to say about their contributions to the industry on the way to earning this career accolade.

Meet the 2025 Honorees

Alex Cettie, Project Manager

As a member of Otak’s owner’s representative group, Alex began her career in the AEC industry a decade ago with a focus on transportation engineering. Her career has advanced since joining Otak to grown into primarily supporting a variety of healthcare and public agency clients, all while bringing a unique collaborative mindset.

“Alex is a rising star… She brings a contagious enthusiasm and a conscientious leadership to the projects she is involved with and is passionate about client advocacy.”

– Shawn Klinkner, Business Unit Leader of PMCM

Among the many projects Alex has helped lead with an emphasis on public engagement, a couple stand out. Critical renovations to the historic Salmon Run Bell Tower in Vancouver, Washington left the structure behind fencing during construction. It’s located in the state’s oldest public park and while on site managing construction one day, Alex was approached by a family interested in what was happening behind the scenes. Alex went inside and recorded a video which she then shared with the family who later wrote the city to say thank you, mentioning that their son enjoyed watching the video daily.

Alex also led efforts to develop and successfully secure a bond for the Hoodland Fire District that protects a critical 45-square-mile corridor around Mt. Hood in Oregon. Its main fire station, in operation since 1966, had been renovated numerous times but could no longer meet the community’s growing needs. After procurement of the project team and sourcing additional funding to offset taxpayer costs, Alex’s efforts led to a bond that passed with nearly 60% affirmative support from a community that will now be better positioned for emergency response.

Miki Bragg, Senior Project Manager

Making a lasting impact through both project contributions and leadership that strengthens our internal systems, Miki is also a member of the owner’s representative team. As part of 17 years in the industry, she’s been at Otak for nearly five of those. In that time, she’s applied the mantra of, “be the change you want to see,” in every aspect of her day-to-day activities, setting a high standard for project delivery and peer mentorship.

“Miki brings a strong voice to her work. She’s confident, direct, and not afraid to speak up or advocate for what she believes is right… She cares deeply about doing great work and helping others do the same.”

– Sarah Oaks, Director of PMCM

Playing a key role in successful project delivery for several public agencies, Miki has had a hand in ensuring essential facilities are opened on time and with minimal disruption to their communities. This includes work improving the Salem-Kiezer School District—Oregon’s largest—where a bond program allowed for comprehensive updates across its facilities. Her background in general contracting has introduced more disciplined processes that have streamlined workflows and reduced risk for clients. It’s all part of an ability to see the bigger picture as Miki consistently anticipates challenges before they escalate. Whether it’s identifying potential contractor compliance issues earlier, clarifying scope ambiguities, or ensuring documentation is properly in place, her proactive mindset prevents costly delays and positions the team to respond with confidence and clarity.

Miki’s commitment to teamwork also extends beyond regular office hours. She is no stranger to making extra time for some added mentorship and team building that emphasizes trust, mutual support, and reliability. Outside of work, she carries these principles into her involvement with the community As a Girl Scout leader, youth soccer coach, and volunteer, Miki’s commitment to her community is part of personality, not just her profession.

Mandy Flett, Construction Manager

For more than 20 years, Mandy has supported Otak projects across planning, federal, transportation, and construction management teams. Her natural ability to maintain and grow connections with peers has been central to finding success with such a diversity in disciplines.

“Over the years, I have overseen the progress of multiple projects varying in size and I feel Mandy excels in technical/design ability and project management. Mandy has demonstrated professionalism through their work product and client management skills… I’ve appreciated the opportunity to get to know [Otak’s] staff and have been impressed with the work they have done.”

– Todd Wehner, Project Manager at BPA

Mandy’s superpower is recognizing gaps. With behind-the-scenes leadership, she takes it upon herself to understand the unique issues that affect multiple parties and find common solutions. During critical situations Mandy excels at managing crises with calmness and efficiency. Quick and transparent communication are her foundation for finding resolutions that minimize disruptions and maintain client trust. This is extremely important when working construction projects where time is very valuable and quality relationships keep operations running smoothly. It’s something that’s led her to forge relationships with a variety of clients. From stakeholders in mass transit to those in environmental science agencies, her ability to maintain cohesive teams stems from a love of connecting with people.

The connections Mandy makes span clients, teammates, and her community. This includes mentoring new hires as they navigate their roles. She helps them manage expectations, balance workload, and teaches them efficient ways to work within the team. Mandy provides guidance with insight into the company culture that ensures new employees feel supported and confident in their roles. Her approachable nature and willingness to share her knowledge foster an environment of continuous learning and growth.

Presenting a Large-Scale Approach to Water Quality at APWA WA 2025

Showcasing the details behind one of the largest water treatment facilities in Washington State, a presentation at the American Public Works Association (APWA) WA 2025 Fall Conference on the Monroe Avenue Infiltration Facility included insights from two Otak engineers responsible for its design. Led by representatives from the City of Renton (project client), the presentation gave an in-depth look at the project’s background, the alternatives considered, and how it ultimately will enhance water quality and flood mitigation for the surrounding community.

Project leaders Russ Gaston and Joe Brascher were on-hand for a Q&A that followed to give firsthand accounts of what went into the design and environmental science that made the project possible. This session was open to the sold-out gathering of attendees for the annual APWA WA event. The group forms a large, dynamic, and engaged community of professionals dedicated to advancing improvement goals at the local level. In addition to opportunities like this to share innovative infrastructure examples with peers, the occasion also aims to foster professional growth and facilitate meaningful connections that promote excellence in the industry. Learn more about this example of green stormwater infrastructure that was presented below.

About the Monroe Avenue Infiltration Facility

Stormwater retention area surrounded by native plantings as part of the Monroe Avenue infiltration facility. — The Monroe Avenue Infiltration Facility

Over the previous few decades, the community of Renton, Washington experienced multiple historic flooding events, causing damage to property and infrastructure. These consequences also extended to the Cedar River and broader water quality in the area. Temporary solutions with drainage easements and overflow pipes were implemented over the years but a new approach was needed for managing stormwater runoff for the 260-acre subbasin. As a result, the city made plans for additional stormwater infrastructure to address the issue that would become the Monroe Avenue Infiltration Facility.

With an emphasis on water quality targets, long-term performance, as well as construction and maintenance cost, several alternatives were considered leading up to this project. Using hydrologic and hydraulic modeling, estimated peak flows were incorporated across all the designs to account for everything up to a 100-year storm event.

The selected alternative delivered a final design that balances cost efficiency and low maintenance with maximum water quality and a smaller facility footprint. The 14-acre site where the facility exists was originally a permitted sand and gravel pit from 1962 to 1982 and had since been used as a reclamation site. After extensive work with land rights, funding, and material availability, a storm tech chamber infiltration facility and water quality treatment vault would be the main components of what now exists at the location.

With a connection to existing stormwater infrastructure, the Monroe Avenue Infiltration facility includes a flow splitter along with primary and secondary isolator rows to address normal and high flow situations. A pretreatment removes debris and a bioscape unit within the treatment vault enhances water quality and lowers water temperature as it makes its way back into the water system. Designed with longevity and maintenance in mind, easy access to features for upkeep include a hammerhead access road to allow vactor truck turnarounds. Altogether the final product was constructed four months ahead of schedule.

A speaker from the City of Renton at the APWA WA 2025 Conference.

Visualization of underground features of the Monroe Avenue Infiltration Facility.

Visualization of the Monroe Avenue Infiltration Facility and its bioscape feature.

A Community Gathers to Celebrate a Green Solution to Urban Flooding

A reconnected historical floodplain, designed to alleviate costly issues for a community that’s prone to flooding, was officially introduced to the public at the Springwater Wetlands grand opening. Members of the community gathered alongside local leaders for a celebration of the project’s completion, along with a birdwatching walk through the area that now serves as a public open space and a restored natural habitat for a variety of native species.

Discussions at the event focused on the project’s goals to both reduce insurance costs for the community and better connect its members with nature, while also improving urban wildlife habitat. The project’s proximity along the Springwater Corridor Trail makes it easily accessible to the public, encouraging greater community engagement. The restoration for this portion of the Johnson Creek Watershed follows earlier work at the adjacent Foster Floodplain Natural Area. Together, both projects add to continued improvements for the City of Portland’s green stormwater infrastructure.

About the Springwater Wetlands Restoration

Working closely with the City of Portland and Bureau of Environmental Services (BES), work on the Springwater Wetlands reconnects and restores the Johnson Creek floodplain to address persistent flooding with green stormwater infrastructure. The project relied on extensive hydraulic modeling to properly map the area in planning for 10-to-100-year flood events and to return the floodplain to its more natural state. A multiuse trail through the new natural habitat complements the existing trail network and opens it up further for public use and wildlife viewing.

A crowd and cameras gathered at the grand opening of Springwater Wetlands — *A gathering of the community and media at the grand opening of Springwater Wetlands*

A sign with information about the restored Springwater Wetlands on display during its grand opening event. — *Information about the restored Springwater Wetlands on display during its grand opening event*

View of part of the retention area as part of the restored Springwater Wetlands. — *Part of the restored Springwater Wetlands and stormwater retention area*

People gathered at the restored Springwater Wetlands during its grand opening event. — *People gathered at the restored Springwater Wetlands during its grand opening event*

Ribbon Cutting Introduces Final Phase of a Rail to Trail Connection in Redmond

After more than a decade of multiple phases, the complete Redmond Central Connector Trail that transforms an abandoned rail corridor into a multimodal regional connection was officially introduced to the public. State, local, and project leaders joined the broader community to speak to the importance of the completed project that unifies downtown Redmond and its neighboring urban areas with the natural setting of Sammamish Valley.

“This trail not only connects Redmond to our neighbors in Sammamish, Kirkland, and Woodinville—it also connects us to many of the things that make Redmond special, including the natural beauty of the Sammamish Valley, parks, gathering places, public art, transit, local businesses, and the energy of Downtown.”

– Angela Birney, Redmond Mayor

The completion of this 1.6-mile segment follows two earlier phases that added 2.3 miles of trail extending from downtown between 2013 and 2017. In addition to several business districts, the project also completes a linkage to the 42-mile Eastrail trail network as well as provides access to Sound Transit stations for direct access to the Bellevue and Seattle area (including SeaTac Airport). This final phase also just so happens to pass directly in front of Otak’s Redmond office. Its proximity not only provided our team as stakeholders with quick access and a first-hand view of progress, but will now benefit them as members of the community with alternate commute options. Several staff members made their way to the event by bike or on foot to join the celebration that also included remarks from project manager Nico Vanderhorst.

“One of the key aspects of this project has always been about making connections… it had been difficult to get to downtown without a car and adding these alternatives for regional connectivity is very powerful.”

– Nico Vanderhorst, Project Manager

About the Redmond Central Connector Trail

This rail to trail project transformed a rail corridor, originally constructed in 1889, into a multiuse connection between downtown Redmond and the surrounding area. Completed across three phases, the transportation design process started with planning efforts that set a vision for the trail. Ahead of phase three, initial work was completed to add fish passable culverts, create a subbase for the trail, and strategically place utilities for Puget Sound Energy in anticipation of completing this new transportation asset.

“One of the technical challenges we solved was how to retain stormwater runoff. What we did was turn the east shoulder of the corridor into a collection and flow control facility avoiding very expensive piping and a retention pond for which there was no available space.”

– Touta Phensgsavath, Project Engineer

Navigating the Sammamish Valley, the trail accentuates the area’s natural surroundings, including a vegetated stormwater control facility to safely treat runoff and a retrofitted historic bridge with lookouts over the Sammamish River. Accessibility and safety were central to the project throughout its design. The final phase of work added crossings at numerous intersections with features like variable paving materials, defined concrete scoring patterns, urban amenities, signalized crossings with improved pedestrian push buttons, and uniquely designed roadway barriers. Together these features established a visual consistency as part of maximizing the overall user experience.

Cyclists using the Redmond Central Connector Trail during its ribbon cutting event — *Members of the Otak team using the Redmond Central Connector Trail*

Otak project team leads at the Redmond Central Connector ribbon cutting. — *Left to Right: Nico Vanderhorst (Project Manager), Touta Phensgsavath (Project Engineer)*

View of signage and a map from the Redmond Central Connector ribbon cutting. — *A map and signage on display during the Redmond Central Connector ribbon cutting event*

Otak team members gathered at the Redmond Central Connector Trail ribbon cutting. — *Otak team members gathered at the Redmond Central Connector Trail ribbon cutting*

Elizabeth Austin Playground Ribbon Cutting: Celebrating an Inclusive Design and Community Legacy

A gathering of community members and leaders celebrated the opening of a fully inclusive public space with the grand opening of Elizabeth Austin Playground. In addition to giving kids a first opportunity to experience the playground, the free event featured a ribbon cutting with the City of Vancouver Mayor, followed by a variety of games and giveaways before concluding with an outdoor movie screening.

“When communities, foundations, and local governments unite with a shared vision, we can create more than playgrounds, we can build spaces where every child, regardless of age or ability, can experience the joy of play together.”

– David Sacamano, Business Unit Leader of Planning & Landscape Architecture

The occasion also allowed those in attendance to recognize the contributions of the playground’s namesake, Elizabeth Austin, who was a revered leader, mother, and advocate for inclusive spaces in the community. With the opening of the playground, the city’s diverse set of public play areas now boasts three inclusive playgrounds.

About Elizabeth Austin Playground

Following master planning for improvement for the broader Fruit Valley Park, Elizabeth Austin Playground drew on extensive public outreach to establish a final design with fully accessible features. These plans were made possible by a $1 Million donation by the Kuni Foundation. Altogether, the playground features follow a design theme of “Play Like a Bird.” Accessibility accommodations in the design go beyond what’s typically found at public playgrounds. Among the features are fully accessible rubber surfacing, inclusive play equipment, a water play area, and bird sculptures. In support of children with specific developmental and neurodiverse needs, it is also the city’s first fully-fenced playground to maximize user safety. New bike racks, benches, and picnic tables further enhance the park for the entire community while placing an emphasis on the area’s natural setting.

View of the ribbon cutting ceremony at Elizabeth Austin Playground. — *The ribbon cutting ceremony at Elizabeth Austin Playground.*

View of Elizabeth Austin Playground and accessible play equipment. — *Elizabeth Austin Playground during its grand opening.*

Graphic showing the playground concept and features that make up the design theme for Elizabeth Austin Playground.

Albina Library Ribbon Cutting: Reimagining a Historic Location with Modern Features

A community ribbon cutting marked both the official halfway point of the Multnomah County Bond project and the historic opening of the Albina Library. As the largest library to open in Portland, Oregon in more than 100 years, work on the Albina Library also included the historic preservation of a Carnegie Building that dates back to 1912.

Among the activities across the grand opening weekend were musical performances, workshops, readings, and crafts like flower origami. This opening follows previous events for the county, including the Holgate Library ribbon cutting. As bond program managers for Multnomah County Library’s historic capital bond program, Otak project leads Mike Day and Judith Moses were on-hand alongside public officials and the broader Albina community to celebrate the milestone.

About the Albina Library Project

With 11 building projects now complete, Albina Library represents just one piece of the overarching $450 million bond program that makes these improvements possible. The expansion adds more than 22,000 square feet of space while preserving and seismically upgrading the historic Carnegie Building, making it the city’s largest new library since the 1913 opening of Central Library. The location of Albina Library in a historically black neighborhood also heavily influenced its design. More than 3,500 community members were engaged across more than 65 public outreach activities to gather input.

A variety of murals, sculptures, and other artwork by local artists can be found throughout the location to reflect the community’s cultural backgrounds. To ensure the library’s public spaces reflect the needs of the surrounding community, 27 teens participated in the Youth Opportunity Design Approach (YODA), collaborating directly with project architects and library staff to create spaces that are welcoming, functional, and teen-friendly. That effort led to a new 1,743 square foot space where teens can gather to play games or study.

Additional new community spaces include an outdoor courtyard where patrons can gather and enjoy nature, as well as numerous community rooms and a new 4,300 square foot interactive kids’ area. For more information on the Albina Library project, visit their website.

Picture of the school bond program management team at the Albina Library ribbon cutting. — *Left to Right: Judith Moses and Mike Day*

A speaker who took part in the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Albina Library. — *The event featured several speakers from the community*

View of people gathered inside the Albina Library during its ribbon cutting ceremony.

People gathered outside the Albina Library entrance during its ribbon cutting ceremony.

Ribbon Cutting Sets Stage for Improved Accessibility to a Rejuvenated St. Helens Waterfront

Redevelopment of the waterfront in downtown St. Helens, Oregon, took a significant step forward with a recent ribbon cutting that opens the area to improved public use and future growth. Members of the community gathered alongside project partners to formally introduce the greater accessibility, functionality and public amenities this work delivers.

This multidisciplinary effort was reflected in the range of Otak leads in attendance including members of our architecture, planning, structural, survey, transportation, and water resources groups.

Group photo of project team leads from the 1st and Strand project along the St. Helens Waterfront. — From left to right: Amanda Owings, Keith Buisman, David Breneman, Mandy Flett

About the Rejuvenated St. Helens Waterfront

In an area that includes several public buildings, like City Hall and the courthouse, the waterfront of downtown St. Helens represented a great opportunity for future growth and expanded public use. After a planning effort led by Otak outlined concept options that include redevelopment of an old mill site, work began on two projects aimed at rejuvenating the area.

The city moved forward with a proposed concept that led to the new riverwalk and its adjacent 1^st and Strand roadway. Review of the recommended plans and concepts included input from the community and potential developers to best position the area for both immediate and future use.

Anchored by a circle turnaround that provides a point of interest along the river, the roadway design of 1^st and Strand improves access for pedestrians and motorists alike. This includes direct connection to the new riverwalk where Otak worked as a subcontractor to Mayer/Reed to create a new public space ready to host a variety of events.

A number of aesthetic and functional improvements were part of the roadway design, from concrete treatments and bulb-outs with planters at intersections, to a new multiuse path and more clearly defined parking. With an eye on the future, an extension of utilities positions the old mill site for shovel-ready development.

[Watch] AIA Oregon Panel on “Paths After Licensure” Hosted at Otak Portland Office

As an aspiring architect, what options are there to pursue after licensure, and how do you reach the point of earning it in the first place? These central questions were explored during a recent panel hosted by the Oregon chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) as part of their Emerging Professionals series.

The event—titled, Paths After Licensure—brought together five accomplished architects from across the region to share their journeys, challenges, and insights with a room full of early-career professionals and students.

Panelists

Kate Piper, AIA – Capital Projects Manager at the City of Portland Housing Bureau
Jacob Dunn – Principal & Building Performance Specialist at ZGF Architects
Kaeli Nolte – Adjunct Professor/Firm Owner at PSU and Zone Design Group LLC
Jennie Cambier – Associate VP Campus Planning & Construction at University of Portland
Jerrod Kowalewski, AIA – Project Executive at Andersen Construction

Hosted at the Otak headquarters in downtown Portland, the panel provided young professionals in the architecture field with personal insights on the path toward professional licensure and the many career options that follow. A diverse set of professional backgrounds on the panel touched on topics across the full journey of professional development as an architect, from first interest through lasting ambition.

Including a Q&A with the live audience, the conversation covered several key areas:

Initial interest and first steps
Focus on sustainability and mitigating climate change
Life in the private vs public sector
Participation in academia and internships
The value of mentorship and luck
Intangibles of the field

A full look at the event can be found below.