The long-awaited downtown washroom known as the Portland Loo is now open in Terrace.
Located on Lakelse Avenue near the corner of Kalum Street, the loo will be open around the clock, seven days a week.
The Portland Loo, which originated in Portland, Oregon, is named for its place of origin and has been selected for its practicality and resilience, a press release by the city says. "A local cleaning company will regularly clean the loo and city staff will regularly check the loo to ensure it's clean and in good working order."
Rules for use and a contact number for reporting issues are posted both inside and outside the loo.
The Portland Loo is a pilot project and will be assessed over time to determine its effectiveness and potential for future expansion. It was funded through a provincial grant during the COVID pandemic when calls grew to address public disorder and sanitation issues in Terrace's downtown core.
City officials had been planning to install the $150,000 Portland Loo in the downtown core since the early 2021, when the unit was purchased. It has been in storage since then. Connect the loo to the existing city water, sanitary lines and electricity was estimated to cost between $40,000 and $60,000.
"The location was chosen based on an assessment of several potential locations. Some deciding factors included public access and access to water, sanitary and electrical services," city said in a press release.
Other facilities in close proximity include the George Little Park washrooms near the playground, the Kwinitsa Building washroom (available when Chill Soda Shop is open), and the Sportsplex washrooms.
