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Centennial Mills Portland news
Archived — this story has rotated out of today’s deck. It is kept here in full.
The gist
Portland begins controlled demolition of Centennial Mills water tower Monday after Aug. 2 fire. Safety concerns drive careful blasts, with residents warned of dust and noise.
Background
Centennial Mills, a 116-year-old warehouse in Portland's Pearl District, caught fire on Aug. 2, 2026, causing instability and health risks. The city has since planned a controlled demolition, starting with the water tower, to safely bring down the structure.
How it unfolded
- Aug 2, 2026Four-alarm fire guts the Centennial Mills warehouse, causing instability and health concerns.
- Aug 13, 2026Contractor Staton Companies arrives to prepare for demolition.
- Aug 14, 2026City announces demolition will begin next week; preparations start.
- Aug 17, 2026Controlled demolition of the water tower begins with a series of blasts, preceded by sirens and alerts.
Who’s saying what
- Official
- City officials emphasize safety as top priority, asking for public patience during demolition.
- Public
- Some residents view the building as a landmark and gather to remember it, while others are concerned about safety.
Still unverified
Possible human remains detected by K-9 teams are unconfirmed.