Sound wall design, landscape combine to reflect natural features

From ODOT- While Laurel Hill Valley neighbors have enjoyed the “quieter” benefits of their new sound wall since December, work on the landscaping continues.



Recently, crews installed topsoil and an irrigation system that will support an attractive landscape of plants that are native to the area.



To place the topsoil, crews closed the western shoulder of the southbound Interstate 5 on-ramp from Franklin Boulevard and pumped soil over the wall.

Landscape planting will take place on both sides of the wall, using several native plant species depending on expected height and coverage.



When the bridge project is done in 2014, neighbors and drivers alike will see an attractive blend of native vegetation and sculptured wall forms representing natural features found in the area.



Thanks to the great input and cooperation of the Laurel Hill Valley neighbors, the sound wall will be more than just a noise barrier between homes and the freeway. The blend of the design enhancements and native plants will reflect the local geology, and historic landscape of the southern Willamette Valley.