The Comprehensive Plan includes five Guiding Principles to recognize that implementation of this Plan must be balanced, integrated and multi-disciplinary. The influence of the Guiding Principles is seen throughout the Plan as they shape many of the individual policies and projects. 

Economic Prosperity

Support a low-carbon economy and foster employment growth, competitiveness and equitably distributed household prosperity.

Human Health

Avoid or minimize negative health impacts and improve opportunities for Portlanders to lead healthy, active lives.

Environmental Health

Weave nature into the city and foster a healthy environment that sustains people, neighborhoods, and fish and wildlife. Recognize the intrinsic value of nature and sustain the ecosystem services of Portland’s air, water and land.

Equity

Promote equity and environmental justice by reducing disparities, minimizing burdens, extending community benefits, increasing the amount of affordable housing, affirmatively furthering fair housing, proactively fighting displacement, and improving socio-economic opportunities for under-served and under-represented populations. Intentionally engage under-served and underrepresented populations in decisions that affect them. Specifically recognize, address and prevent repetition of the injustices suffered by communities of color throughout Portland’s history.

Resilience

Reduce risk and improve the ability of individuals, communities, economic systems, and the natural and built environments to withstand, recover from, and adapt to changes from natural hazards, human-made disasters, climate change, and economic shifts.