Category: Community

Community, Construction, Government October 22, 2026October 22, 2026

1818 SE 82nd Shelter Opens After Delay

The Harrison Community Village at 1818 SE 82nd Avenue opened to residents on September 29th after months of unexpected delays. Multnomah County’s Homeless Service Department (HSD) and site operator Do Good Multnomah held a public preview of the newly completed sober-shelter site on April 24th, expecting residents to soon fill 38 shed-style sleeping quarters arranged on the property. However, issues with the vinyl plank flooring used by the pod-style housing manufacturer delayed intake operations as crews worked to repair the failing flooring adhesive.

Intersection of SE 82nd Ave with visible street sign and green trees in the background; containers are behind a black fence on the right side.

County spokesperson Julia Comnes explained that site operators observed vinyl plank flooring peeling up from the subfloor of the pods before the shelter opened and repairs required “several rounds before the flooring was ready.” Not all shelter pods are ready for habitation, as some units are still undergoing repairs. However, Do Good Multnomah is bringing people into the temporary housing ahead of the cold-weather season. “These delays were unfortunate,” remarked Comnes. “The fact is that pod-style shelters are still relatively new, and the industry is still testing and learning what build style and materials are best suited to this application in our local climate.”

Interior view of a small, empty room with a wooden floor, a single bed with a dark mattress, an air conditioning unit, and a window letting in natural light. — *_{LIT Homes produced 8-by-10.5-foot single room pod-style shelter with original flooring}*

The sleeping pods, made by Portland-based LIT Homes, offer an 8-by-10.5-foot room with heating and cooling. Wayne Watson explained that the flooring did not fail, but the glue that adhered it to the subfloor did not withstand prolonged disuse without environmental controls. He said that the units were delivered to the County in the beginning of 2026 and sat in the cold and heat for many months without climate controls. That prolonged disuse exceeded the adhesive rating as applied by the factory. “Can you imagine what would happen if you left a home without heating or cooling for seven months?” asked Watson. He said the units are delivered as fully assembled “volumetric” assemblies, ready to occupy as soon as they’re connected to power, and other customers have people moving in within days of delivery.

LIT Homes responded to the County’s concerns and reapplied the Luxury Vinyl Tiles with more adhesive. A small subset requires additional attention to restore the flooring to its delivered condition. County facilities staff and the project’s general contractor, Buildskape, are unsure what caused the flooring issue. However, after working with the subcontractor, LIT Homes, to resolve it, they say the County will replace the flooring altogether. “Given the ongoing issues, we’ve decided to replace the flooring with different materials in all of the units to avoid future challenges,” explained Comnes. The project team has no timeline for the replacement work. Still, they believe the materials are readily available, so the work should be completed quickly, and all guests currently on-site will be able to stay there throughout the replacement process.

Close-up of a metallic plaque on a structure, displaying the text 'LIT HOMES' and a serial number 'G1070-280-025', with yellow directional markings beneath. — *_{LIT Homes plate on one of the pod-style shelters}*

In addition to environmental controls, sleeping pod residents have a bed, light, and power for personal devices, but use other structures for sanitation and food preparation. Six converted shipping container units provide office space for staff, participant services, hygiene facilities, kitchenette amenities, and laundry facilities. Residents and their pets will have on-site access to modest green spaces.

Multnomah County purchased the former recreational vehicle dealership at 1818 SE 82nd Avenue in December 2022 for $2 million. The County bought this 34,000-square-foot parcel as the second Montavilla location for temporary shelter services. The other shelter, Oak Street Village at 333 SE 82nd Avenue, opened in February 2025 and is currently operating near full capacity. The Joint Office of Homeless Services—now renamed the Homeless Services Department—has held several community meetings, including one in February where the nonprofit Do Good Multnomah staff elaborated on the site’s sober shelter model that aims for people to stay onsite from 90 days to three months as they work towards stable housing in a recovery-supportive environment. Presenters explained that residents and staff are subject to drug testing, and policy strictly prohibits the possession of non-prescribed intoxicants on the property. Choosing a sober format meets the community’s stated desires for the county-owned site, which is near two Portland Public Schools. Do Good Multnomah conducts background checks on potential residents looking for past criminal history, and those with a record of abuse of vulnerable populations are directed to another, more appropriate shelter or resource. The site is also a weapons-free zone.

Row of small, modular housing units with metal siding under a clear blue sky.

Do Good Multnomah took control of the site at the end of construction in April to begin setting up the shelter with furniture, technology resources, and other move-in needs. On-site staffing remained limited in the following months because there were no residents. Contractors working with the HSD are paid on a cost-reimbursement basis. As a result, the County says Do Good Multnomah was paid only for reduced staffing at the site until the workforce increases to meet program participant needs.

The site is completely fenced, with a new chain-link barrier on three sides of the property using enhanced privacy slats installed in the fence. Unlike some other installations, these plastic inserts have side wings that better fill the gaps where the wire links connect, providing significant visual obstruction. Site designers also planted greenery along the SE Mill Street frontage to provide additional buffer between the newly updated sidewalk and the shelter space. Because of the visual obstructions, members of the public likely did not know Harrison Community Village was unoccupied this summer. Oak Street Village, north of this site, shows little activity even when fully occupied. If this location follows that pattern, few will notice changes as residents move in. However, people looking for a sober option as they transition to stable housing should be relieved that the Harrison Community Village is finally open.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News is supported by contributions from businesses like Catalyst Construction & Kitchen Remodeling, a top-rated general contractor specializing in kitchen, bathroom, basement, and garage remodeling, as well as ADU construction and home additions. We thank them for their support.

Community, Government October 17, 2026October 17, 2026

Oct 20 Unified Housing Roundtable

This October, city staff are hosting Council District-based Community Roundtables to gather Portlanders’ priorities and build a legislative roadmap to deliver housing affordability. The District 3 roundtable will take place Tuesday, October 20th, from 6 to 8 p.m. within the Rose City Community Collective at 5830 NE Alameda Street. People interested in joining can register for this free gathering, which provides food, childcare, and interpretation services to make it accessible for people who want to receive a brief presentation and then share their perspectives on housing priorities in their community.

A person reviewing a poster with draft strategies for housing development, including actions for anti-displacement and equity, with colorful sticky notes and status indicators. — *_{Attendees apply three dots to large printouts}*

The District 1 roundtable took place on October 13th at the Rosewood Initiative on SE Stark Street. Council President Jamie Dunphy and Councilor Candace Avalos—who chairs the Housing and Permitting Committee—joined city staff to present a high-level view of efforts to create a unified housing strategy that took form in August 2025. Two progress reports document work up to this point, outlining Phase I and Phase II. A sizable part of the evening programming focused on letting attendees apply three dots to large printouts of identified programs aimed at housing creation and affordability measures that are planned or identified through prior outreach. People at the event also have other options to share their insights based on lived experience and local knowledge.

Two speakers stand side by side, one on the left with glasses and tattoos holding a microphone, and the other on the right wearing a black top and blue pants, also holding a microphone, while presenting in front of a backdrop featuring posters and information on economic development. — *_{Council President Jamie Dunphy and Councilor Candace Avalos}*

Quisha Light, Interim Portland Housing Bureau Director, explained that this outreach phase matters when balancing the trade-offs budgets demand while accounting for community priorities. “If there was enough money to do everything, we would do it all,” remarked Light at the October 13th roundtable. Avalos added that this work will support City Council in passing a future resolution to create a comprehensive plan that will guide the next budget cycle and ensure city staff has a flexible but clear roadmap for housing affordability.

A woman speaking into a microphone at a presentation, with a backdrop displaying a virtual meeting featuring a cityscape of Portland, Oregon. — *_{Interim Portland Housing Bureau Director Quisha Light}*

The Unified Housing Strategy Phase III work identified the need to add 20,000 new residential units to Portland’s market while preserving 1,400 affordable units by 2035. Unlike traditional housing efforts, this could include more non-market housing options, such as limited-profit developments or city-owned properties. Speakers at the District 1 meeting explained this would require reevaluating existing municipal spending and creating new revenue streams. Avalos acknowledged that executing the Unified Housing Strategy will depend on the City Administrator. Still, City Council is working with industry experts, city bureaus, and the community to develop a compelling plan to address the recognized affordable housing crisis. Resident participation at these Zoom or in-person roundtables helps shape the efforts, and project leaders hope people will find time to participate in the next three District sessions.

A person with a shaved head and glasses stands in front of a poster titled 'Portland's Housing Ecosystem,' which outlines various housing categories and support systems with color-coded icons.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

–
Disclosure: The author of this article served on the 82nd Avenue TIF Working group and is currently the co-chair of the 82nd Avenue Area TIF Community Leadership Committee. Tax Increment Financing (TIF) funds may play a role in housing creation influenced by the Unified Housing Strategy. The author does not speak on behalf of the Committee or any City of Portland bureau.

Community, Event October 12, 2026October 11, 2026

Arbor Day at Harrison Park Oct 17

The Urban Forestry team at Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) and APANO will host an Arbor Day Celebration in Harrison Park at 2101 SE 84th Avenue on Saturday, October 17th. This free, family-friendly event is open to everyone from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with tree-related activities and bucket-truck lift rides for children. The PP&R Yard Tree Giveaway team will hand out over 200 free trees to people who register in advance, and attendees can plant 15 new trees, enjoy tree-themed activities, live performances, and free food from area Jade District vendors.

A grassy park with several young trees and tall greenery, under a cloudy sky.

Arbor Day celebrations have been a Portland tradition since 1889. America recognizes the annual observance on the last Friday in April; however, Portland Celebrates Arbor Day in October due to the changing climate. Planting outside the dry summer months lets newly planted trees receive a natural autumn soaking from the rainy weather. The day has become more significant for people interested in growing the urban tree canopy. Planting trees is often identified as a way to mitigate some of the effects of rising temperatures by shading pavement and sidewalks. This lowers the temperature directly under the tree and can also reduce ambient air temperature in communities with significant tree coverage.

This Arbor Day celebration marks Portland’s 50th year holding a Tree City USA designation. The Arbor Day Foundation recognizes this achievement as part of its work, in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service and the National Association of State Foresters. The U.S. Forest Service provided Inflation Reduction Act-sourced funding for this year’s Arbor Day celebration in Portland. The Meyer Memorial Trust also provided additional support.

Sign for a community tree planting event, advertising Arbor Day on 10/17/26, with a green background and illustrations of trees and plants.

People looking to embrace car-free travel to the event can join the Arbor Day Bike Bus with the Bureau of Transportation. It starts at 9 a.m. from Glenhaven Park’s BIKETOWN station at NE 81st Avenue and NE Siskiyou Street, with stops along the way to join the pack. If participants need to borrow a bike, they can request free BIKETOWN rental codes by emailing claire.bach@portlandoregon.gov.

In addition to the vertical rides to the top of the trees in a real PP&R Urban Forestry bucket truck, people can enjoy music, live performances, free food, and games for all ages. The event programming will recognize this year’s Bill Naito Community Trees Award winners. The annual award honors the late builder and community leader who helped found the Urban Forestry Commission in 1974 and chaired it until his death.

A playground swing set with multiple swings in blue, red, and black colors, set on a wood chip surface in a grassy park environment.

With Portland’s Arbor Day celebrations scheduled for Harrison Park this Saturday, people in Montavilla and surrounding neighborhoods can easily access this free event. Last year’s event took place at Sacajawea Head Start in the Cully neighborhood. In 2024, it was held at Glenfair Park in East Portland. The Arbor Day events focus on these communities because they have fewer trees in urban areas than other parts of the city west of 82nd Avenue. In a 2010 to 2016 inventory, not a single neighborhood east of 82nd Avenue met the citywide average canopy coverage of 30.7%, excluding natural areas like Powell Butte. Since then, many Urban Forestry efforts have worked to address this inequity through focused tree giveaway programs targeting impacted neighborhoods and holding events closer to where trees are needed to help lower summer temperatures that spike in those hot spots. The Arbor Day event can be an effective way for Portlanders to celebrate trees and their role in improving communities while having a good time in a city park.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Check out East Portland News as it continues to advocate for and report on outer East Portland. You will find frequently updated articles and an archive of more than 5,000 stories written over the past 20+ years alongside a robust Community Calendar of events.

Community, Construction, Infrastructure October 2, 2026October 2, 2026

Solar Array on Bird Alliance 82nd Ave Property

Renewable energy specialists are installing a new solar panel array on the grassy, sloped southern edge of a former landfill along NE 82nd Avenue, now owned by Bird Alliance of Oregon. Once complete, the community solar array will reduce utility costs for 140 low-income Portlanders through a collaboration with APANO, Bonneville Environmental Foundation, and other partners. The new energy source at 2800 NE 82nd Avenue uses the site’s topography to receive year-round sun exposure while staying low to the ground, making the installation less visible, particularly as the nonprofit continues habitat restoration on its 12.49-acre property purchased in 2024.

A field with tall grass in the foreground, featuring solar panels in the background, surrounded by trees under a clear sky. — *_{Top edge of solar array on Bird Alliance 82nd Ave property extending just above grass}*

Crews have placed over half of the solar panels on a metal gridwork that supports them. Most people passing the site will not see all of the units, which sit a few feet above the ground, with views blocked by the adjacent People’s Courts pickleball facility. However, they will contribute 800 kW of renewable energy to the grid. The array operators expect credits from the electricity generated at the site to reduce participant low-income households’ energy bills by up to 40%. Portland Pacific Power customers who directly pay their own utility bill and earn up to 80% of Oregon’s Median Income can apply to APANO’s community solar project as a low-income subscriber and potentially receive credits on their utility bill. The organization describes community solar as a way for people historically left out of traditional solar to benefit without buying their own solar panels. APANO also has a Residential Rooftop Solar program that uses Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) money to install solar panels for homeowners. That program launched to serve 14 homes, while this latest effort should support 140 power ratepayers.

Solar panels installed on a hillside, surrounded by trees and a chain-link fence, with graffiti on a wall in the foreground. — *_{Solar array on Bird Alliance 82nd Ave property seen from NE Russell St}*

This new activity follows habitat restoration and the demolition of long-abandoned structures. For decades, this overgrown field was known for the graffiti-covered remnants of a golf driving range built on top of a landfilled quarry. For most passersby, all they observed was an abandoned building at 2806 NE 82nd Avenue, situated next to a tall, grassy field. Hidden inside the overgrown brush was the collapsing structure of a half-moon driving range. Several fires in the former “Pro Shop” administrative building on NE 82nd Avenue complicated its demolition. However, in September 2025, crews completed removing this site’s golfing past.

PCEF supported construction of this community solar array across NE 82nd Avenue from McDaniel High School as its seventh community solar project. It is one of the first public benefits planned for the Bird Alliance of Oregon site, which will host nature trails and a wildlife hospital that should provide educational opportunities for area students. Work on the solar array is proceeding quickly and should be visibly complete within the coming weeks. More visible changes to the site will continue over the coming years.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Community, Event September 21, 2026September 20, 2026

Jade Outdoor Spaces Open House Oct 1st

On October 1st, APANO Communities United Fund will host an open house from 5 to 7 p.m. to gather Jade District residents’ perspectives on access to green space. Participants attending the drop-in gathering within the community room at 8118 SE Division Street will join a focused conversation about a roughly 1.5-acre property owned by Metro on the southeast corner of SE 89th Avenue and 90th Place. All area residents, whether or not they attend, can complete an anonymous online survey to share their opinions.

Oregon Metro owns the large parcel at 2815 SE 90th Place after purchasing the property in July 2025 for planned Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). Community advocates have long envisioned the large property as a neighborhood park and recently sought support for that project. Last March, APANO collected 149 community member signatures on a letter calling for meaningful engagement and substantial green space at the site. This support follows the 2014 Jade District community visioning plan and the 2018 EPA Greening the Jade project work. That previous community outreach recorded in those documents showed a desire and expressed need for green space across all groups in the neighborhood.

Announcement for a community open house hosted by APANO to discuss the future of the 1.5-acre site at 2815 SE 90th Place, including details about affordable housing and green space. — *_{APANO open house flyer (tiếng Việt,}*_Español_{, and}_简体中文₎

Since sharing that letter, organizers have focused on developing plans based on current capacity for new parks, indicating the need for a practical shared-use model for the site. A standalone park or community garden without housing would require another organization to purchase the property from Metro and take responsibility for long-term maintenance. A mixed housing and green space approach could include shared outdoor areas for residents or a combination of affordable housing and publicly accessible green space, community gardens, paths, or gathering areas. They expect the open house and survey results will help rank community priorities for affordable housing, outdoor recreation, and public access to green space. APANO will compile the results into a community engagement report for Metro to inform its plan for the site and shape Request for Proposal (RFP) language used to secure future development.

Although creating a full site park is less likely, APANO staff expect an opportunity for public use of part of the 1.5-acre site, and survey and open house input could support that initiative. The open house will have language support in Vietnamese, Cantonese, and Mandarin. People needing childcare or American Sign Language support to participate should call or text (503) 922-3910 by September 24th. The venue is wheelchair accessible and off the 72 and FX 2 TriMet bus lines. No registration is needed to attend this family-friendly event.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News is supported by contributions from businesses like Otter Wax, a neighborhood producer of small-batch specialty goods handcrafted in Portland. Using only natural ingredients, they make modern care products that are steeped in tradition. We thank them for their support.

Community, New Residence September 11, 2026September 11, 2026

Legin Commons Opens with 124 Affordable Homes

On September 10th, the public and private organizations responsible for creating the Legin Commons apartment building at 7755 SE Division Street celebrated its opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Soon, new residents will begin moving into 124 new regulated affordable homes on Portland Community College’s (PCC) Southeast campus, prioritizing families with children and low-income households.

A group of individuals participating in a ribbon-cutting ceremony outside a building, smiling and holding a large golden ribbon.

The new four-story building sits on the site of a former Kaiser Permanente one-story medical clinic built in 1964. PCC acquired the land several years before Kaiser’s closure and demolished the building in 2015, using the land as an auxiliary parking lot with a large grassy spot where the building once stood. PCC had always planned to repurpose the space for more effective uses than parking. In 2021, College leadership worked to develop a twenty-year facilities plan for the educational institution’s properties. During that evaluation, PCC determined that portions of the school grounds should support low-income affordable housing. Instead of student-only dormitories, they opted to focus on attainable housing open to the community. From internal student surveys, PCC staff learned that housing insecurity is a significant concern. They also observed that students often spread their education out over many years with inconsistent enrollment. As a result, PCC determined that tying housing programs to school affiliation would not alleviate housing insecurity among the student population, so planners opened this housing to all who qualify.

Exhibition poster for Legin Restaurant, highlighting its history and cultural significance in Portland's Jade District.

A previous PCC campus expansion razed the former site of the Legin Restaurant, a beloved Chinese eatery and community hub. Housing developers APANO, Our Just Future, and Edlen & Co. chose to honor the area restaurant by naming the building Legin Commons and incorporating central gathering amenities to match its namesake’s role as a community hub. Located in the Jade District and the Montavilla neighborhood, blocks from SE 82nd Avenue, it offers access to some of Portland’s most active transit lines and walkable destinations. The building also offers secured on-site parking for some residents with dedicated EV charging stalls.

A black gated entrance with a sidewalk leads to a modern building with green and gray exterior. The building has multiple large windows, and there are rectangular concrete pads on the ground. — *_{Security gate leading to resident onsite parking with EV charging stalls to the left}*

The Portland Housing Bureau awarded this development $3.78 million from the Portland Clean Energy Community Benefits Fund (PCEF) to install a solar array and high-efficiency heating and cooling split systems. Other public funding came through a $1.67 million allotment from the voter-approved Metro Affordable Housing Bond and a Metro-awarded $250,000 Transit-Oriented Development grant. Legin Commons residents also enjoy natural cooling from a mature tree canopy on its eastern edge and new greenery planted around the property to help replace the shade once provided by older trees removed during construction.

A rooftop view featuring multiple solar panels and several air conditioning units against a backdrop of trees. — *_{Rooftop mounted mini-split heat pump condenser units and solar array}*

PCEF Program Manager Sam Baraso explained during the Thursday event that green investments in this building benefit residents and the environment by reducing off-property energy consumption and lowering costs. “We invested in 294 in-unit mini-split heat pumps and 22 common-area mini-split heat pumps, three high-efficiency whole-building ventilation systems, 33 energy recovery ventilators, which means we can bring in fresh air into the building constantly, make sure folks are breathing clean, fresh air and do so in a way that actually uses the outgoing air to cool or warm [incoming air].” On the roof is a 180-kilowatt solar array that further reduces the energy demands of these residences on the grid. Claire Parisa with the nonprofit Enterprise Housing Credit Investments, which provided funding support for this project, highlighted the unique support for environmental construction in Portland. “There’s always a goal to make buildings green, but not necessarily the funding to go with it. And we’re so lucky to have PCEF in the city to make those dreams a reality.”

An outdoor playground with wooden swings and climbing structures, surrounded by colorful blue play equipment and orange safety ground cover, in front of a modern green and gray building. — *_{Outdoor play area and resident courtyard}*

Lower energy bills and cleaner indoor air are just a few of the key features of this complex. Designers used the natural amenities to create significant outdoor space for residents, including an outdoor play area off a large community room. On-site laundry and bike storage are available on multiple floors. Private meeting rooms throughout the building provide secluded workspace or an area for private conversations away from home. Elevators offer seating in an adjacent lobby on each floor so people with mobility considerations can navigate the property with less impact on their comfort. A ground-floor classroom can also host community meetings or events, as long as it remains open to all residents in the building. APANO will provide resident services, leveraging its headquarters’ proximity to the site to be an integrated partner in the building’s supportive services.

Interior view of a modern meeting room featuring a large TV screen, a whiteboard on a stand, and a wooden table with green chairs. — *_{Ground-floor classroom}*

For over a decade, APANO has looked for opportunities to increase housing in the district, making good on a community-driven concept for the area. “Our vision for Jade is for it to be Portland’s most transit-rich, most affordable, and most climate-resilient part of town. We have Legion Commons opening today, we have Jade Apartments opening next month, and we’re in pre-development at Canton Grill,” explained Metro Councilor Duncan Hwang, who also works for APANO. “Part of the housing piece is our work around anti-displacement. We have some time right now to really build up these community assets to make sure we can stay in place.”

A woman speaking at a podium outdoors, surrounded by trees and greenery. — *_{Quisha Light, interim director of the Portland Housing Bureau}*

Quisha Light, interim director of the Portland Housing Bureau, celebrated the addition of these new housing units but noted it is just an early step in a larger effort to meet the community’s needs. “According to the city’s housing needs analysis, Portland must add about 28,000 homes that are affordable to families in that 0 to 60% of AMI (Area Median Income) range by 2045. So we still have a lot of work to do. It’s a big lift, but I have lived here for 20 years now, and I’ve seen Portlanders step up and really accept the big challenges. So I know all of us standing here today can make that happen. Legin Commons makes stability real. With 124 new affordable homes, including 20 deeply affordable homes at 30% AMI, and more than half of all units sized for families, this development reflects the community it serves,” said Light.

A woman speaking at a podium outdoors, with a smiling woman seated beside her in front of a backdrop of trees. — *_{Katy Ho Interim President PCC and Councilor Tiffany Koyama Lane}*

Speakers at the ceremony noted the importance of creating high-quality affordable housing in an area that has historically supported generations of the city’s minority populations. “This stretch in the Jade District and the 82nd Avenue corridor in particular has long been home to one of our most diverse communities in the city. Immigrant families, refugees, students, working people who bring so much to Portland,” said Portland Councilor for District 3, Tiffany Koyama Lane. “This is a place where we can hear more than 140 languages spoken, where we can find our culturally specific food and markets that reflect our beautiful diversity. This neighborhood was built by people. The character comes from families who have been here for generations, and also from folks who crossed oceans and borders to get here.”

A man and a woman share a warm moment at a podium during an outdoor event, while another woman sitting nearby smiles and claps in appreciation. — *_{Metro Councilor Duncan Hwang, Lynn Fuchigami Parks, and Councilor Tiffany Koyama Lane}*

Koyama Lane explained how preserving communities through anti-displacement and naming is a significant step for a city whose past leaders excluded many non-white voices. In 2024, Sameer Kanalwe and Koyama Lane became the first two Asian Americans ever elected to Portland City Council. Beyond naming the building after a community gathering space, residents will use the Minoru Yasui community room. “Legin Restaurant was more than just a great restaurant. It was a center of community life, and today, Legin Commons carries that spirit forward as a place where people can gather, connect, celebrate, and build community. This is especially meaningful that the community room bears the name of Minoru Yasui,” said Lynn Fuchigami Parks, Executive Director Emeritus of the Japanese American Museum of Oregon. “The night of March 28th in 1942, Minoru, who was only a 26-year-old attorney at the time, walked the streets of downtown Portland to deliberately violate the military curfew imposed on people of Japanese ancestry. He did so to challenge the constitutionality of that order. That’s the order that led to the unjust incarceration of over 120,000 men, women, and children, the majority of whom were American citizens.” The plaque that will be in the community room touches on Yasui’s story and adds to the sense of place created in the building.

Modern seating area featuring wooden benches and acoustic panels, with pendant lighting, in a well-lit space. — PCEF Program Manager Sam Baraso

Modern kitchen with light wood cabinetry, stainless steel appliances, and a long countertop, accompanied by green stools and a large TV in a communal space. — PCEF Program Manager Sam Baraso

Residents will start moving into Legin Commons soon, with the 30% AMI units mostly committed to people. Many 60% AMI-priced units are still available for qualifying renters. Those homes are restricted to households whose annual income does not exceed $53,940 for one person, $61,620 for two, and upward based on the number of residents. Homes restricted to 60% of AMI earners are currently rented at near-market rates. Still, this new building offers far more amenities than other multifamily buildings in the area, and the protected rental rate can help provide housing stability when market rates rise faster than median income. Consequently, the building should fill to capacity slowly, allowing a gradual influx of new neighbors to the residential area around the new apartment building.

Article and Photos by

Jacob Loeb

Community, Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink August 27, 2026August 27, 2026

My Voice Music Block Party August 30

On August 30th, My Voice Music (MVM) and Ascending Flow will host a Block Party with live youth music, DJs, and skateboarding to introduce the BUS-A-Flow mobile studio. The MVM youth-focused nonprofit organization opened its Montavilla facility at 8911 SE Stark Street in September 2023. Recently, muralists completed work on the outside of the building, highlighting this music-based after-school program provider’s activities within. People are invited to visit between 1 and 6 p.m. to participate in this free gathering.

A colorful mural depicting a woman singing into a microphone, with a hand holding a pen nearby. The background features vibrant, abstract patterns.

Event organizers will close SE 89th Avenue north of SE Stark Street beside the MVM building preceding the Sunday, August 30th, activities. The block party will showcase performances representing the range of music being created by My Voice Music and Ascending Flow participants. Ascending Flow will use its converted transit vehicle dubbed BUS-A-Flow to bring a mobile recording studio, performance stage, and creative hub to communities across Oregon. This mural-painted, customized vehicle will further the nonprofit’s work, including free programs for young people navigating foster care, experiencing housing instability, and seeking to build positive life skills.

Mural on a building featuring the phrases 'MY VOICE MUSIC' and 'WRITE', surrounded by colorful abstract designs and greenery.

Ascending Flow works out in the community but lists the SE Stark Street address as its main location, joining MVM in its rehabilitated former bakery building. Since 2008, MVM has served young people by facilitating their artistic expression through writing, recording, and performing original music. Several setbacks delayed the opening of the Montavilla SE Portland headquarters, including the 2021 death of MVM’s founding Executive Director, Ian Mouser. For the last three years, the youth music center has helped expand the organization’s programs and supported efforts by similarly aligned organizations.

A colorful mural on a building featuring a large, expressive face singing, a microphone, and the words 'WRITE' and 'RECORD' in bold letters, surrounded by vibrant swirls of color.

This co-hosted event serves as the annual Ascending Flow Show and showcases the new MVM mural created through a partnership between the two non-profits working from the location, with support from an Oregon Metro Community placemaking grant. Members of the MVM community shared the program’s significance to their lives, and young artists translated those stories and experiences into the mural’s imagery and design with guidance from Damon Smyth and OC Note.

The block party includes many activities with skate ramps, basketball, and face painting. Attendees can enjoy free food, Live DJs, and youth performances. The Portland Bureau of Transportation will have bike helmets and supplies for bike-decorating activities. The community is invited to experience the new mural, see the BUS-A-Flow mobile studio up close, and learn about the supportive programs at this East Portland resource destination.

Jacob Loeb

Community, Construction, Event August 11, 2026August 11, 2026

Remodeled Belmont Library Opening Aug 15 Weekend

After nearly two years closed for renovations, the Belmont Library at 1038 SE Cesar Estrada Chavez Boulevard reopens for a weekend celebration. People can attend the ribbon-cutting ceremony at 9:30 a.m. on Saturday, August 15th, and then enter the building starting at 10 a.m. for two days of activities highlighting the new facilities and amenities. This Multnomah County library features fabric artwork mimicking large-scale pages torn from a spiral notebook created by Britt Howard with Portland Garment Factory. This Montavilla business burned down in 2021 and was later relocated to a building adjacent to Interstate 205.

Exterior view of a modern library building under construction, featuring a red metal facade and large windows. A construction worker is using a lift to work on the upper part of the building, while another worker stands nearby. A sign for the library is displayed in front, surrounded by a fence and construction cones.

On September 7th, 2024, the Belmont Library closed for renovations that tripled its original size with a two-story addition to the 1924-era brick building. Demolition crews removed portions of the building added in 2000 and part of the parking lot to make way for the now-completed addition. Despite its modest 5,420-square-foot capacity, this branch was one of the busiest locations in the entire Multnomah County Library system before closing. During the closure, patrons visited a temporary branch at 3557 SE Hawthorne Boulevard. Library staff provided extra effort to keep the temporary location open even as they worked to ready the new facility for this opening weekend. However, the community has been without a local pickup location since August 3rd, and the hold shelves at the new location are already populated with an impressive number of reserved books, according to staff.

Sign indicating Multnomah County Library, Belmont branch, with a notice stating 'LIBRARY CLOSED' due to construction, reopening in Spring 2026, and listing nearest library locations.

This work is part of a voter-approved library expansion initiative and represents the last major update to complete the work. Bora Architecture and Interiors designed this cross-laminated timber expansion featuring wood products from Oregon and Washington. Crews created dedicated areas for different age groups of readers. The entire century-old part of the building serves the youngest patrons and their caregivers with interactive and tactile displays, size-appropriate furniture, and shelves of children’s books. This area also features remembrances of Jeanie Diaz, a youth librarian killed by a driver who crashed into a bus stop near the library where she was waiting in 2023. People can see a note from one of Diaz’s two children inside an interactive display. Library representatives say a plaque honoring Jeanie Diaz is also planned for the space.

A hand-drawn note on a piece of cardboard that reads 'mom loves Myra I LOVE YOU too' surrounded by colorful decorative objects. — *_{A note from Jeanie Diaz’s child included in the Belmont Library’s kids reading room interactive display.}*

In addition to the kids’ room, holds pick-up area, and Lucky Day items shelves, the first floor also features a large reservable community space for gatherings and events. Other amenities and the primary book shelves are on the second floor, accessed by two elevators and a public staircase at the front of the building. Visitors can find flexible meeting spaces with updated technology, laptops for on-site work, and fixed computer stations. Library staff understand the changing role of the public resource they provide. Consequently, high-speed internet throughout the facility is a key feature of these upgrades, along with access to printers and other digital tools people require to connect with job opportunities and services. This top-floor space also offers a teen area with facilities for homework and creative expression, alongside young-adult book titles on the adjacent shelves.

Three large, abstract paper sculptures resembling sails or wings, suspended from a ceiling with wooden beams and black pendant lights. — *_{Fabric artwork mimicking large scale pages torn a spiral notebook created by Britt Howard}*

Above the teen space is the fabric artwork by Britt Howard that looks like a paper airplane made from a lined spiral notebook page. A paper fortune teller and a crumpled ball flank the classic folded flyer. Its exaggerated scale and playful, soft-sculpted schoolroom shapes provide a sense of place where young people fight boredom and embrace their own interests. The upper walls of the second floor feature a mural with over 200 handmade objects integrated into the artwork. It is the creation of Pacific Northwest artist Emily Counts.

A modern library interior featuring bookshelves filled with various books, a large table with stylish lamps, and comfortable seating. — *_{LED lights with device charging ports at a reading table in the library shelves}*

The new library offers four on-site parking spaces. Two are reserved for people with a Disabled Person Parking Permit to use without a time limit, and the other two are available for quick visits that are less than 15 minutes. Crews reconstructed the sidewalk around Belmont Library, making more space for pedestrians and adding locations with enlarged bicycle parking that can support cargo bikes. Landscapers have planted new street trees to replace some cut down during construction and have also installed other public amenities around the property.

An interior view of a modern self-service checkout area featuring conveyor belts and a digital screen displaying instructions. — *_{Automated material handling equipment sorts returned books into bins}*

Technology improvements in the facility also assist staff with automated material handling, which sorts returned books into bins for transfer or reshelving. Kiosks throughout the building allow people to find titles and resources or check out items without needing to find a person for assistance. However, public feedback made clear that people visiting this branch also enjoy the human interaction. So the library features strategically located desks in public places so that an employee is often accessible to visitors and staff can see if people need help. They also use an in-building communication system that lets everyone stay in contact wherever they are for support and collaboration that isn’t tied to a desk.

People interested in joining the weekend celebration starting at 9:30 a.m. on August 15th can park in the Walgreens lot to the north of the library or take public transit to the location. After the office opening, the library will resume its normal schedule and welcome back an eager public to this well-used community resource.

Article and Photos by

Jacob Loeb

Community, Event August 9, 2026August 16, 2026

2026 Adult Soapbox Derby Saturday Aug 15

On Saturday, August 15th, the PDX Adult Soapbox Derby returns for its 27th year of gravity-induced fun. Starting at 10 a.m., people will gather for this free event along SE Reservoir Loop Drive and at locations around the Mt. Tabor Park course to watch contestants roll down the extinct urban volcano at increasing speed. Over 150 volunteers will assist racers and attendees on the derby day until the event concludes at 4 p.m. Montavilla residents can cheer on the local business entrant and sponsor, Covert Cafe.

A man wearing a white shirt with colorful patches and a baseball cap stands confidently on a road at a lively event. In the background, spectators gather around homemade vehicles while trees line the area. — *_{PDX Adult Soapbox Derby 2025 (Jacob Loeb)}*

In the summer of 1997, Paul Zenk and Eric Foren loosely organized a small group of friends to race down Mt. Tabor’s winding roads in an event that would create the inaugural PDX Adult Soapbox Derby. The annual community gathering has grown yearly to include 42 racing teams and between 7,000 and 10,000 spectators. This free-to-attend day of races features highly engineered carts and some haphazardly crafted contraptions that all rely on gravity for propulsion. People wishing to attend should anticipate walking some distance to the event and bringing water or other refreshments. Some concession items and merchandise are available for purchase at the event.

A colorful, decorated parade float shaped like a car, featuring bright green fur and a large, whimsical character with a blue head and pink arms. Two participants are sitting inside the float, while a fire truck with firefighters is in the foreground, and a large crowd is visible in the background enjoying the parade. — *_{PDX Adult Soapbox Derby 2025 (Jacob Loeb)}*

In 2016, Justin James and his ‘Team Rusty Rocket’ secured the track’s fastest run at 71.10 seconds. Each year, participants put in significant effort to create fast, thematically creative entries. Some carts travel up to 50 MPH down the paved park roads as they try to secure the quickest time or the biggest cheers. The Soapbox Derby is a family-friendly event, but volunteers must clear the track before each run for safety, and responsible adults need to remain close enough to ensure their children are out of the way when a race starts. Parking in the park and neighborhood is limited, and people should plan to bike, walk, or take transit.

This article will update with photos of the 2026 Adult Soapbox Derby

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Map of the PDX Adult Soapbox Derby event area, featuring designated parking, rest areas, food and beverage locations, first aid, and a walking trail. — *_{2026 Adult Soapbox Derby map courtesy PDX ADULT SOAPBOX DERBY}*

Community, Entertainment, Event, Food and Drink July 20, 2026July 20, 2026

2026 Montavilla Street Fair July 26

On Sunday, July 26th, the Montavilla East Tabor Business Association (METBA) will host the 13th annual Street Fair on SE Stark Street. Early that morning, crews will close the road from SE 82nd to 76th Avenues, along with segments of side streets, to allow the 150 booth operators to set up ahead of the 10 a.m. opening. Vendors will sell a variety of items, including food and drinks, unique artwork, handcrafted goods, and clothing. Mixed in with people selling items, organizations will provide information, and performers will entertain the crowds until 6 p.m. Vehicle traffic will resume on the street later that evening after organizers clear the area. Still, people can stay in the neighborhood to visit the bars and restaurants along SE Stark and NE Glisan Streets. Last year, a record-breaking number of people from around the region visited Montavilla’s historic downtown to participate in the annual community party. Event organizers expect that it will increase again this year.

Main street view of Montavilla in Portland, featuring a banner for the Montavilla Street Fair with dates and times, shops with outdoor seating, and street signage. — *_{Montavilla Street Fair 2026 banner}*

A week before the event, sign installers placed the banner over SE Stark Street at 80th Avenue, announcing the Street Fair date to everyone passing by. Although many people in the area have already marked the date on their calendars, raising the banner represents Montavilla’s invitation to the city of Portland. Thousands of visitors attend this annual neighborhood event, driving record sales for local businesses and introducing people to the historic downtown Montavilla.

Promotional poster for the 13th Annual Montavilla Street Fair, featuring event details such as date, time, location, and a list of performers. Emphasizes music, art, food, and fun.

This year’s event is music-forward with four stages. HONK! PDX will offer a special all-acoustic stage experience. People can also enjoy performances at the SE 79th Avenue Plaza Stage next to the Threshold Brewing beer garden. The Main and Brewery stages will feature a diverse mix of larger acts throughout the day. Montavilla Brew Works, Threshold Brewing, and The Observatory will again feature beer gardens. Many past fair booth operators are returning, alongside a new crop of makers, food vendors, and organizations. As a bonus, the Montavilla Farmers Market will be open during its regular hours on the 26th, providing attendees with access to more booths and food options at SE 76th Avenue and Stark.

Sponsorship from Adventist Health Portland, Mr. Plywood, OnPoint Community Credit Union, and others helps fund what has become one of the largest street fairs in Portland. People can find day-of-event updates and the full music lineup, including performance times, at the METBA website (metba.org).

Crowd gathering at the Montavilla Street Fair, with colorful tents and vendors. A banner overhead announces the event, while a man balloons entertains children in the foreground. — *_{Montavilla Street Fair 2025}*

Parking in the neighborhood is always in short supply during the street fair. People are encouraged to take public transit to the event or explore other modes of travel. Portland transportation leaders organized a Community Ride/Bike Bus to the Montavilla Street Fair this year to reduce parking challenges in the area while providing a family-friendly ride along neighborhood greenways and new protected bike lanes near downtown Montavilla. Interested participants can gather starting at 10:30 a.m. near the Irving Park covered area for a relaxed 5.6-mile ride to the fair leaving at 11:00 a.m.

Article and photos by

Jacob Loeb

Promotion: Montavilla News will have a booth at the fair this year. We will give away stickers and sell year subscriptions that will come with a logoed hat or pin, while supplies last.

Neighborhood news site focused on buildings and changing businesses

Find us on