HoverBoarder
Graduate Poster
- Joined
- May 18, 2011
- Messages
- 1,667
Just to address this one point for a moment. We went through quite a profound and pronounced period of urban revitalization from 1995-2000 ish. We built a light rail system. We built the Eastbank Esplanade and many other walking/biking access. We completely transformed the Pearl District from a drug trafficers paradise to some of the most desirable real estate in the city. We had great zoning laws to make downtown retail and restaurant friendly as possible. Sorry for a bit of a distraction but this is a real concern of many people living here.
Downtown Portland businesses, derailed by pandemic, say protests present a new challenge[Oregon live article]
That article is just tragic. I grew up next to Portland, and I remember all of those amazing improvements you are talking about. For me, the heart of the city has always been Powells Books. It has always been such a fun and quirky city where people really care and help each other.
I completely understand the hesitation of people to visit the city though. I am going to be down in the area next month, and am unsure where in the city it is safe. 23rd is probably OK, and the waterfront on the opposite side near OMSI, plus the Rose Gardens of course. I bet they are beautiful this time of year. That article just makes me want to visit and support a city that I love.
It really is sad to see people turn on each other and attack that beautiful city. It will come back to its height and better. It just needs some time to heal.