E205 INITIATIVE

The City of Portland has an unwavering commitment to areas east of I-205. 75% of Portlanders enjoy access to a park or natural area within a 15-minute walk of their home. Many of the parks provide a variety of amenities from sports fields and playgrounds to pathways and picnic areas. When looking at the park system east of I-205, we see a different picture. Incorporated later into the City of Portland, East Portland does not have the rich tradition of parks and recreational places. Yet, East Portland has experienced population growth and now 40% of families with children are living in this area. Demand for equitable recreational services is high. New parks can cost in the tens of millions and Portland Parks & Recreation is looking toward a bond measure in the future to address these service gaps.

In the meantime, the E205 Initiative is underway, improving and adding to the amenities in existing parks. Smaller, affordable basic improvements can make a big difference to a community without waiting for a bond measure. Designed to make minor improvements (under $250,000 per site) such as a community gardens, lighting or playgrounds, E205 will leverage City dollars with private dollars to complete projects in East Portland as an ongoing commitment to the area. The City Council has allocated $500,000 towards immediate improvements for existing East Portland parks; the Portland Parks Foundation is working with private individuals, businesses, and foundations to match the City's dedicated funding.

Park/Project Selection Criteria

• Park has identified service delivery gap
• Park has identified community support
• Project has broad appeal to a wide range of community members
• Project leverages other funding, partnerships, or in-kind materials and services
• Project has no significant site preparation or permitting issues so it can be built or under construction within 18 months
• Project cost or total allocation per park is $250,000

For more information, contact:

Jim Blackwood, Jim.Blackwood@portlandoregon.gov, 503-823-3598