Skip to Content
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Streetsblog Los Angeles home
Log In
Parks

Streetfilms: Portland’s Pioneer Courthouse Square


According to the Project for Public Spaces (PPS), Portland, Oregon's Pioneer Courthouse Square
is one of the Top 10 greatest public spaces in the U.S. & Canada. I
couldn't agree more. Affectionately referred to as the city's "living
room" the charming and versatile block was once slated to be a parking garage in the 1960s. Thankfully the residents didn't let that happen.

Recently while grabbing lunch in Portland, I wandered into the
"Festival of Flowers" - a beautiful urban meadow installation that was
so pleasant and comforting, I just had to shoot some video. Ethan Kent
from PPS has often said to me that the key to the success of Pioneer
Courthouse Square (and many public spaces) is its amazingly diverse
programming. He's right, I've been to Portland a dozen times and there
always seems to be something wonderful going on there.

Stay in touch

Sign up for our free newsletter

More from Streetsblog Los Angeles

Caltrans Posts Draft Master Plan for PCH in Malibu

Activists agree this plan is a huge improvement over current conditions, but there are some areas where it could be even better.

April 16, 2025

New Bike Lanes on Mission Road and Bonnie Brae Street

New bike lanes are complete on Westlake's Bonnie Brae Street. New partially-protected bike lanes are being installed on Mission Road in Boyle Heights.

April 15, 2025
See all posts