Portland Employment-Based Transit Oriented Development
Portland, OR
Employment in Portland’s Central Eastside Industrial Sanctuary grew at a rate of 8% even during the “Great Recession” due to this district’s central location, affordability, and attractive urban form. The goal of the project was to determine how to allow for (and encourage) new, responsible growth while lessening industrial displacement as the neighborhood adapts to the opening of the Portland-Milwaukie light rail line (Orange Line).
The project specifically addressed the concerns of existing businesses, while accommodating the needs of new tech-and light industrial small business start-ups. VIA provided urban design support to the City of Portland and the facilitation of two public charrettes. Our work included:
- Conceptual station area design alternatives to guide new development and investment in the Central Eastside Industrial District.
- Concept and prioritization for infrastructure investments that connect between station locations.
- Reorganization of street grid to preserve freight mobility, but introduce other modes, including cycling and pedestrians.
- Land use strategies to encourage creative industries, maintain affordability and add density to the SE quadrant.