A willingness to embrace alternative policy and question routine
thinking was a common theme of practise observed in Portland. Evidence of this
can be found in transit and growth planning policy and objectives. Policy
implemented in Portland is embraced and supported by the community The city’s
commitment to cycling and public transit is evident when using various systems.
My experience of using light rail, streetcar and bus services and the amount of
users across all modes reveal a community embracing public transit. A community
embracing multi-modal transit indicates a high level of success for a city with
such commitment to transit based planning. Transit effectiveness is boosted by
the bicycle friendly nature of the city. Cycling around Portland reveals a city
committed to cycling. Due to its reputation, I expected more dedicated
infrastructure and a higher degree of separation from traffic. However,
Portland’s reputation as a bicycle friendly city may be found in driver’s
attitude towards cyclists. The sheer number of riders on the roads promotes a
consciousness of cycling among other road users. The courteousness and
attention paid by drivers makes the city a safe and enjoyable place to ride.
The success enjoyed by Portland’s transit system owes to it’s commitment
to strong planning policy. The city appreciates the value of effective transit
systems and their vital contribution to the accessibility and liveability of a
city. Portland’s commitment to creating a liveable and accessible city is
further reflected in a strong focus on maintaining the city’s urban growth
boundary.
Portland planning objectives across a number of categories reveal its
importance, I was unaware of its impact upon planning as a whole in the city.
Practice observed reveals how it is referenced frequently in overall policy,
including its use in transit, housing and economic contexts. To maintain an
effective catchment and provide good accessibility, transit and housing policy
recognizes the need for the UGB. Having a secure UGB allows transit to
effectively plan for future population growth within its parameters, allowing
for appropriate transit and housing solutions to be applied in growth areas.
Not only does the UGB dictate growth patterns, it is important for the city’s
economy. The feasibility of community
supported agriculture schemes and maintaining Portland’s artisanal food
industry is also very much dictated by the retention of the UGB. An important
component of Portland’s economy nominated as vital to the character of the
city.
UGB focused policy and transit solutions reflect the standard of policy I
was expecting from Portland, however visiting the city revealed some unexpected
details. Portland’s high property prices and housing accessibility is creating
issues for the city. As a city with a strong focus on community equity, housing
and homelessness very much detract from these goals. While the city is taking
steps to provide solutions, Portland’s drive for rail to outlying areas
exacerbates the problem. As demonstrated by the rapid increase in property
prices following the provision of MAX rail services. Once affordable housing is
now no longer accessible to residents that could once afford to live there.
While the MAX rail is enormously successful, it appears to be contributing to a
major housing issue in Portland. While Portland is not without its issues, the
strength of foresight in planning provides a benchmark for other US cities and
the world. Strong growth strategies and transit planning will ensure the city
is prepared for future growth challenges. While Portland may provide a benchmark
for other cities to follow, its response to housing affordability and
homelessness will be a determining factor in its overall success.
Ben Yates
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