September 21, 2009

Commissioner Fish has been working closely with Mayor Adams throughout the summer to craft an updated set of rules to govern the use of Portland's sidewalks. The two recently met with downtown business owners to gather input and hear feedback, and have held meetings with advocate groups and community stakeholders.

The plan Commissioner Fish has brought forward would create sidewalk zones, one of which would be solely reserved for walking. The plan, supported by city attorneys, would complement current laws regulating sandwich-board signs and outdoor cafe seating.

Mayor Adams and Commissioner Fish are working to ensure that the new law is constitutionally sound and that it continues to offer police a way to deal with aggressive panhandlers.

The Mayor hopes to have a plan before Council in coming weeks, resolving a longstanding controversy in downtown Portland.

Thanks to TriMet's Flickr account for this photo.