Originally planned in 1852, South Park Blocks is a 12-block park stretching from Portland State University and several of the city’s foremost cultural institutions. The price tag for the redesign is anticipated to be as much as $47m.
The South Park Blocks Master Plan, as it is called, envisions a more diverse array of tree species, more native plants, new or revamped plazas, and art installations celebrating the indigenous history of the region. To accomplish these changes, some of the park’s iconic rose gardens would be moved to other areas and some lawns relocated or replaced.
The 132-page plan calls for new artwork in addition to rotating areas dedicated to temporary exhibits that would foster more diverse cultural expressions. Commissioner Carmen Rubio, quoted by the Oregonian, explained:
“It respectfully weaves together many community perspectives while caring for our trees and environment. It doesn’t erase the history or the stories of this park.”
Utilizing brochure printing services can help others envision a project’s end result.
The fate of the park’s 150-year-old elm trees was a concern raised by some Portland residents. However, although the plan does call for an eventual 20% reduction in the number of trees in the park, city officials gave assurances that no healthy trees would be proactively removed.
No timeline or dedicated funding for the project has been determined as yet.