As the mercury begins its steady climb, the City of Portland has taken measures to prevent workers from the harsh sun, starting activities before the rooster crows. According to the Portland government website, beginning May 15, construction operations get the green light to kick off at 6 a.m., from Monday through Saturday, when the day is forecast to sizzle past 85 degrees Fahrenheit by the afternoon.
This action isn't just a passing nod but solidifies into a 120-day interim rule. Hoping to shield workers from the brunt of the heat, the city's mandate comes with strings attached; construction companies opting for this early rise must shoot off an email to the Noise Control Office and take the extra step to notify their neighbors within a 500-foot embrace of the construction site about the early bird schedule — all this, between three to five days ahead of time.
But don't expect to hear pile driving or rock crushers with your morning coffee; these are firmly excluded from the rule, alongside other high-decibel offenders like jackhammers and Vactor trucks. And for those cherishing a quiet Sunday morning or a legal holiday, rest assured, the rule steps back to allow some peace.
