A collaborative initiative named “Walk Portland” has been launched as part of a joint effort involving Oregon Walks, Travel Portland, and the Bureau of Transportation (PBOT). This project aims to enhance pedestrian navigation in downtown Portland by facilitating awareness of local attractions and events.
Launched in early August, the $150,000 project is part of a tourism-related grant and features new signs and markings designed to help pedestrians explore the area without relying on cars. The initiative comes amid discussions about the allocation of resources between marketing and infrastructure, yet emphasizes the need to show residents and visitors alike that Portland is a vibrant and walkable city.
The Walk Portland route stretches from Salmon Street Springs on SW Naito to Powell’s Books on NW Couch, utilizing the SW Yamhill/SW Morrison couplet and including SW Harvey Milk Street. According to Zachary Lauritzen, Executive Director of Oregon Walks, the new wayfinding system aims to bolster confidence among all pedestrians, whether they are long-time locals or newcomers.
Megan Conway, President and CEO of Travel Portland, added that accessibility and pedestrian-friendliness are essential for making a place truly welcoming. As considerable events take place throughout the summer, the hope is to draw more foot traffic to downtown’s shops, restaurants, and events.
To promote the initiative, the Downtown Sunday Parkways event on September 14th will intersect with the Walk Portland route, offering an excellent opportunity for residents and visitors to experience the new signage in action.
Additionally, on Tuesday, August 19th, PBOT’s Pedestrian Advisory Committee will host an in-person walking tour for community members to explore the newly established route. Participants are invited to meet at 6:00 p.m. at the southwest corner of Pioneer Courthouse Square, where a one-mile walking tour will showcase interventions in the pilot program, including directional signs, orientation signs, sidewalk decals, and storefront window coverings.
This walking tour allows for direct interaction with city planners and feedback on the Walk Portland project, emphasizing community engagement in shaping pedestrian infrastructure. For those unable to attend the event, an online survey will be available for public input following their experience with the new wayfinding signs.
After the three-month pilot program ends in October, professional planners will assess the outcomes and integrate public feedback to craft a more permanent system. This phase represents an ongoing commitment to transforming downtown Portland into a more inviting space for pedestrians and ensuring that the city’s potential is effectively communicated to both residents and visitors.
image source from：bikeportland
