Creating Vibrant Neighborhoods & Communities

We’re helping Portland build and increase access to healthy, complete neighborhoods — with essential goods and services, connected to jobs, with transportation options and access to open spaces — throughout the city.

Policies and programs are intended to implement tailored development and place-making approaches within Portland’s neighborhoods to reflect each community’s unique qualities and interests. Activities focus on building a more equitable, resilient, and adaptable city in the face of economic and natural changes. A community-led, community-driven approach is central to this work, with investments designed to ensure that minority and historically disadvantaged neighborhoods are able to absorb and benefit from growth without displacement.

Desired Outcomes

Vibrant Communities & Corridors – Neighborhoods throughout Portland are anchored by vibrant commercial and mixed-use areas that support local demand for goods and services and result in improved business and resident satisfaction with the community.

Connected Innovation & Jobs Centers – The region’s economic and physical health is marked by job growth and innovation in Portland’s numerous employment-based centers, from the Central City to industrial districts like Airport Way and the Central Eastside to neighborhood hospital and university centers.

Regional Assets – Strategic partnerships and focused use of urban renewal resources will strengthen eastside and Central City landmarks and attractions.

Projects & Programs

These are just some of our projects and programs that support the creation of vibrant neighborhoods and communities:

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Williams & Russell Project

The Williams & Russell project is a collaborative effort between a community-based Williams & Russell Project Working Group (PWG), Prosper Portland, Legacy Health and the City of Portland. The project involves Legacy Health returning to the community a 1.7-acre vacant block at North Russell Street and North Williams Avenue. Historically, the site once was part of a thriving community that housed the majority of African Americans in Portland and Oregon.