January 05, 2003
Portland's Shape and Livability in 2003
Today in The Sunday Oregonian, Randy Gragg's 'Sight Lines' column offers a preview of what's ahead for Portland design and development in 2003:
The last year in architecture brought Portland and Oregon plenty of its usual fare: well-crafted buildings, responsible urban design, a few architectural ambitions in the details. But, as usual, even the highest moments generated a low level of excitement.
...
Overall, however, the architectural buildings and decisions of 2002 pale in comparison to those we'll encounter in 2003. Look ahead: The region will face both larger and smaller questions with real consequences for the region's architecture, the city's form and its residents' lives. The answers will determine whether we grow innovatively or desperately, striding toward a healthier future or stumbling forward on quick fixes.
The projects discussed: The fate of Memorial Coliseum; the prospects for a baseball stadium; new rules on the demolition of historic buildings; the Galleria as a public market; choosing a direction for Central Eastside; Pioneer Courthouse Square as serving the public or commerce; the midtown Park Blocks; the redevelopment of MLK Jr. Boulevard; the restoration of the Willamette River; the OHSU tram; expansion of streetcars and light rail; and the so-called Big Picture when it comes to a vision for design and development.