Portland's Unrealized Eastern Waterfront Plans Gain New Momentum

Portland is picking up momentum on fitful long-term planning efforts along the east bank of the Willamette River.

1 minute read

June 25, 2015, 2:00 PM PDT

According to Andrew Theen, "for the first time in a dozen years [Portland] is moving forward with plans to improve the waterfront, including developing a public beach." The momentum is "part of an overall plan to map the future of the Central Eastside."

"City planners…say the river has never been cleaner, thanks to the $1.4 billion Big Pipe project finished in 2011 to divert sewer overflows. That, they said, has been a game-changer for public perceptions. They also say the new Tilikum Crossing bridge and a new light-rail station make the area ripe for development."

Theen describes the current plans as less ambitious than an unrealized 1994 plan for a waterfront park including a restaurant, public market, and amphitheater.

The article provides a lot of context on the area, including past planning efforts and the years of local action that has led to the current moment. In 2015, the city is working on a plan for the Central Eastside focused on welcoming new jobs, especially in the information economy.

FULL STORY: The Central Question: Fixing up Portland's eastside waterfront gains new momentum

Thursday, June 25, 2015 in The Oregonian

Land Use Urban Development Oregon Portland Willamette River Waterfronts Planning View More

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching. Mary G., Urban Planner

I love the variety of courses, many practical, and all richly illustrated. They have inspired many ideas that I've applied in practice, and in my own teaching.

Mary G., Urban Planner

Get top-rated, practical training

Start Learning

Advertise with us

Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools

This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.