The City of Sacramento soon will have a new, stand-alone public restroom in downtown’s Cesar Chavez Plaza.
Sacramento’s Department of Youth, Parks & Community Enrichment received approval from the City Council on Feb. 4 to award a contract for the Cesar Chavez Plaza restroom project to Saenz Landscape Construction Company. The project involves the installation of a single-stall “Portland Loo” restroom building.
Created in Portland, Ore., Portland Loos are designed to “prevent problems that are commonly experienced with public toilets, such as crime, vandalism and deterioration,” according to the device’s website.
Here are some commonly asked questions about Sacramento’s new Portland Loo:
How much will the Portland Loo cost?
The installation of a Portland Loo in Cesar Chavez Plaza (910 I St.) will cost approximately $300,000, which includes construction as well as the cost of the prefabricated Portland Loo restroom building.
When will the project be completed?
The Cesar Chavez Plaza restroom project is expected to be completed by fall 2020.
What is the current inventory of public restrooms in Sacramento?
There are approximately 85 parks, community centers, libraries and other public buildings that offer public restrooms in the city. Approximately 28 of those restrooms are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week. The remaining 50-plus restrooms have varying operational hours.
What are the hours of operation for the restroom?
The hours will be determined by park maintenance staff and will be programmed prior to opening the Portland Loo. Typical hours in Sacramento City parks are sunrise to sunset, but this restroom may be programmed to stay open later.
What are the unique aspects of the restroom?
Below are some of the unique aspects of the Portland Loo, according to its website.
- The coated stainless-steel walls are hard to vandalize and easy to clean.
- The hand-washing station is mounted on the exterior.
- The restroom is protected with an anti-graffiti clear coat and is easy to maintain with a cleaning hose and janitorial supplies stored in the mechanical closet.
- The restroom requires minimal utilities, at 1.28 gallons per flush and a max 60-watt load.
- The Portland Loo’s slats ensure police can see in if they suspect illegal activity.