On Thursday, the Metro Council announced the awarding of $6.25 million in grants to 12 parks and nature projects throughout greater Portland. These grants are part of the Nature in Neighborhoods Capital Grants program, which is funded by the voter-approved 2019 parks and nature bond measure.
This marks the third round of Capital Grants issued from the 2019 bond measure, contributing to a substantial $100 million in grants provided by Metro over the past 25 years for parks and nature projects across the region.
Councilor Christine Lewis expressed gratitude to the voters, saying, “This is why voters support us: we deliver. I want to again thank voters for voting yes for Metro parks and nature.”
The Capital Grants program focuses on community-driven projects that enhance water quality, improve fish and wildlife habitats, and address the challenges posed by climate change. Additionally, these grants aim to improve residents’ experiences with nature in their neighborhoods, particularly those from historically marginalized communities.
Councilor Juan Carlos González remarked on the importance of the program, stating, “This is what government should be doing, when we lead this way, when we elevate our communities this way, when we put our money where our values are. I’m really inspired by this round of grants and I’m grateful that so many pockets of our region are going to be benefiting from these resources.”
The projects awarded grants this year vary widely. The funded initiatives include a pedestrian bridge on a regional trail in Tigard, a habitat restoration effort near an affordable housing complex in Aloha, and the expansion of a community garden in Portland’s Chinatown.
“I think it is a great program that spreads money around the region and is accessible to communities,” expressed Councilor Gerritt Rosenthal.
It’s important to note that while Capital Grants funds must be allocated to publicly owned projects, partnerships are a critical component of the program. Many of the awarded projects are spearheaded by community organizations collaborating with local government entities.
Among the notable projects receiving funding is the City of Tigard’s Red Rock Creek Trail Implementation, which has been allocated $1 million. This initiative involves the construction of a pedestrian and bike bridge over the TriMet, WES, and Pacific & Western Railroad line, enhancing access to nature within the Tigard town center as part of the Red Rock Creek and Tigard/Lake Oswego regional trails.
Friends of Gladstone Nature Park have received $132,000 to build an inclusive bird pavilion near a newly constructed ADA loop trail, designed to allow all visitors to enjoy the park’s over 100 bird species in shelter from the rain. This pavilion will feature amenities for the blind and visually impaired, ensuring ADA accessibility.
The Housing Authority of Washington County has been awarded $750,000 for the Aloha-Reedville Housing Wetland Restoration project. This project focuses on restoring wetland habitats at an affordable housing development, enhancing natural resources, water quality, and climate resilience while meeting community needs by providing open space and wildlife habitat.
Another significant initiative is the Central Eastside Willamette River Seasonal Activation Pilot, led by the Human Access Project, which has received $250,000. This project aims to improve river-edge spaces at and around Audrey McCall Beach and the public Fire House Dock in Portland’s Central Eastside neighborhood.
King City will use $407,300 to develop a nature trail within the King City Community Park. Currently, an approximately 5-acre wooded area adjacent to the park will be upgraded for safety and improved access for the community.
The Lan Su Chinese Garden will receive $100,000 to expand a community garden in Portland’s Chinatown. The Block 24 Garden Project will double the production of Asian vegetables, enhancing food access for seniors while providing an inclusive space to foster cultural connection and climate-resilient practices.
Llewellyn Elementary School in Portland is set to utilize $579,486 for its Climate Resilient Schoolyard Project. This project aims to create an inclusive, accessible natural space that promotes environmental stewardship and supports the adjacent Oaks Bottom Wildlife Refuge and Moreland Woods, contributing to local biodiversity.
The Lloyd EcoDistrict’s Peace Memorial Park Revitalization project will receive $260,047. This project aims to transform a PBOT easement into a vibrant hub linking the Lloyd District to the Willamette River, incorporating pollinator gardens, art, and stormwater solutions to foster equity and climate resilience.
With a $1 million grant, the North Clackamas Parks and Recreation District, in partnership with the Oregon City School District, will develop a neighborhood park at Jennings Lodge Elementary School. This project aims to introduce nature and play amenities to communities in an area currently lacking park facilities.
Portland State University is also allocated $600,000 to support the completion of the Indigenous Traditional Ecological and Cultural Knowledge (ITECK) Center, which involves extensive community input and restoration of an urban oak savanna.
Lastly, AfroVillage PDX has received $988,020 for The AfroFuturism Oasis project, which will convert a retiring MAX train and an underutilized site in North Portland into a sanctuary space blending nature, green energy, and Afro-futuristic design for BIPOC communities.
Unite Oregon’s Black Wellness Center Community Garden Initiative will expand existing community garden efforts in East Portland with a $200,000 grant. This initiative focuses on creating a garden built by and for the Black community in East Portland, emphasizing healing, wellness, and empowerment.
image source from：oregonmetro
