UPDATE – The replacement collection box is now missing. USPS representatives did not respond to inquiries regarding this most recent removal.
Original article from December 3rd, 2020
USPS installed a new collection box at the corner of SE 76th and SE Salmon Street. It replaces one removed due to vandalism earlier this week. On Monday, November 30th, USPS employees discovered damage to the lock mechanism on the mailbox. Staff determined that repairs were extensive and required replacement.
Ernie Swanson, Strategic Communications Specialist for USPS, explained the extent of the vandalism. “The lock on the box was damaged to the point that the box could not be opened.” The collection box was replaced a few days after being removed.
The new collection box is mounted a four feet over from its earlier location. The mounting bolts are exposed where the old box had stood, creating a potential trip hazard for pedestrians.
Located at 1208 SE 76th Ave, this is one of a handful of postal collection boxes in the Montavilla Neighborhood. After the national concern over mailbox removal, there was worry that this box was penalty removed. Swanson explained that all collection boxes serving Montavilla would remain in service.
Fortunately, the damage to the lock only caused the collection box to fail closed. Residents using mailboxes in the neighborhood can feel assured that box location and security remain intact. The replacement collection box on SE 76th Ave is ready to serve the neighborhood’s western edge once again.
Montavilla News 