Good morning, South Metro. About a third of American adults say they wanted their own Easter basket this year. We haven’t confirmed it, but it does feel like Lake Oswego might be overperforming.
In today’s South Metro Weekly:
The wait for the new Abernethy Bridge construction project just got a little longer.
A one-stop-shop to learn about Summer Camps for the kids.
And cute dog photos… ‘Nuff said.
Let’s get going… And welcome to the first ever issue of the South Metro Weekly.
Your Kid’s Summer, Solved (or at Least Started)
🏕 The OMSI Summer Camp Expo is basically speed-dating for parents and summer plans.
If you’ve looked up recently and realized summer is… alarmingly close, you’re not alone. The NW Kids Summer Camp Expo is back at OMSI, bringing together dozens of camps from across the Portland metro in one place. Think day camps, overnight camps, sports, science, arts—basically every option your kid could possibly be interested in, all under one roof. Learn more about the event.
The event is designed to be a one-stop shop for families, with more than 30 camps represented and plenty of chances to meet organizers, ask questions, and figure out what actually fits your kid (and your schedule). It’s free, family-friendly, and includes activities, giveaways, and a little entertainment—so even if you don’t leave with a fully booked summer, you’ll at least leave with a plan.
📅 WHEN: This Saturday, April 11 from 10AM-3PM
🪧 WHERE: OMSI Auditorium at 1945 SE Water Drive in Portland
💵 COST: Free (Parking will cost you a few bucks. Use the Parking Kitty app.)
“The quickest way for a parent to get a child’s attention is to sit down and look comfortable.”
Good Things Take Time (Including the Abernethy Bridge)
🌉 The project’s running behind—but it’s still moving forward
ODOT
Construction crews now say the Abernethy Bridge project may not wrap up until early 2027—pushing things well past the original timeline. The massive I-205 upgrade is designed to make the bridge earthquake-ready and improve traffic flow, so while the delay isn’t ideal, the long-term payoff is a safer, smoother drive for years to come.
In the meantime, it means a little extra patience—especially if your routine includes back-and-forth trips between Oregon City and West Linn for school events, practices, or games. The good news: the project is about 70% complete, so real progress is happening. The slightly-less-good news: we may all have a bit more time to perfect our alternate routes before it’s finished.
It’s Time to Finally Get Rid of That Thing
🗑 Tualatin’s Bulky Waste Day is here—and yes, this may involve negotiations
City of Tualatin
Tualatin’s annual Bulky Waste Day is back on this Saturday, giving residents a chance to clear out the stuff that’s been sitting in the garage, side yard, or “we’ll deal with it later” corner of the house. We’re talking old couches, broken appliances, mattresses, electronics—the kind of items that definitely don’t fit in your regular trash bin. The drop-off happens in Wilsonville, and it’s free (just bring proof you live in Tualatin—and maybe a little patience).
But let’s be honest, somewhere across South Metro this week, a dad is absolutely defending a 17-year-old piece of exercise equipment like it’s a family heirloom. Do what you must—but if something’s still in good shape, organizers ask that you donate it instead to places like Goodwill, Habitat for Humanity, or other local nonprofits so it can actually get a second life.
Wilsonville, your Bulky Waste Day is coming up on May 16.
📅 WHEN: This Saturday, April 11 from 9AM-1PM
🪧 WHERE: Republic Services at 10295 SW Ridder Road in Wilsonville
💵 COST: Free with some limitations. Read more here.
Monday Morning Motivation
"When everything seems to be going against you, remember that the airplane takes off against the wind, not with it."
That is it for today, South Metro. Thanks for taking a few moments with us. We will be back in your inbox on Thursday!
Dexter