It’s one thing to look at a megaproject on a map. It’s another altogether to view in person the space where it will be built, says Pat Daniels. As executive director of Constructing Hope, Daniels is a member of our Equity Advisory Group and Community Benefits Advisory Group. She was among 16 other individuals serving on advisory groups who toured the program area on both sides of the Columbia River last month.
“To actually walk out and see it, it brought in the reality of how big this is going to be,” Daniels said The tour started (and ended) in downtown Vancouver, with stops at the Expo Center light rail station and on Hayden Island.
Along the way, Program Administrator Greg Johnson, Delivery Manager Casey Liles and Design Manager Shilpa Mallem presented the latest program updates. It was the latest in a series of similar program area tours our program has hosted, which aim to provide participants with an up close and personal view of the five-mile-long program area. Elected officials, community leaders and members of the media have also taken part in tours of varying locations.
“I think it pulled everything together in a way that you can’t do without being there in person,” says Community Advisory Group co-chair Lynn Valenter.
Michael Strahs, a member of the Community Benefits Advisory Group and vice president of development for Kimco Realty, which owns Jantzen Beach Center, agreed. Mini Grants to Community-Based Organizations The IBR program recently awarded a second round of small-scale, low-barrier grants to community-based organizations serving equity priority communities. This collaboration will help the program reach more individuals to inform them about the investments being studied in the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement and upcoming opportunities to give feedback. Participating organizations will work alongside the program to conduct outreach through their networks to help prepare equity priority communities for the release of the Draft SEIS in early 2024.
To be eligible, CBOs had to show they serve at least one equity priority community; have an office located in Clark or Multnomah counties; actively use multiple modes of engagement with their members; and have been established as or sponsored by a nonprofit organization for at least a year. Out of 45 applications, eight were chosen — four each from Oregon and Washington — that collectively serve all of the equity priority community groups identified by the program. Grants will be provided on a tiered scale so that CBOs can easily incorporate the grant requirements into their ongoing efforts and align with their capacity.
They include:
Oregon Cada Casa International Education Services Mission: To facilitate equitable, impassioned learning and cultural enrichment through interest exploration, skill building, creative expression and community development opportunities for everyone. Equity priority communities served: BIPOC, communities with limited English proficiency, lower income and houseless individuals and families, immigrants and refugees, young people and older adults. Independent Living Resources Mission: To promote the philosophy of independent living by creating opportunities, encouraging choices, advancing equal access, and furthering the level of independence for all people with disabilities. Equity priority communities served: People with disabilities, lower income and houseless individuals and families, young people and older adults. Slavic Community Center of NW Mission: To help members of this community become fully functional, well-integrated part of the society in every aspect of their life in this country: education, employment, health and wellness, social services, business development, career growth, legal assistance, etc., while preserving their cultural heritage. Equity priority communities served: Communities with limited English proficiency, immigrants and refugees, young people and older adults. Soul District Business Association Mission: To promote and sustain the economic and business development of inner urban North/Northeast Portland since 1977. SDBA is a voice, advocate, facilitator, and catalyst for approximately 5,000 businesses and 64,000 residents within its district boundaries. Equity priority communities served: BIPOC, immigrants and refugees. Washington NAMI Southwest Washington Mission: To help all people affected by mental illness through education, support, awareness, and advocacy. Equity priority communities served: BIPOC, people with disabilities, lower incomes and houseless individuals and families, young people and older adults. Odyssey World International Education Services Mission: To advocate for social justice collaboratively and compassionately while serving marginalized people that are impacted by poverty and discrimination. Equity priority communities served: BIPOC, people with disabilities, communities with limited English proficiency, lower income and houseless individuals and families, immigrants and refugees, young people and older adults. Partners in Careers Mission: To assist individuals to become economically self-sufficient by providing resources, training, and job placement opportunities. Equity priority communities served: Lower income and houseless individuals and families, immigrants and refugees, young people and older adults. Sakura 39ers Youth Association Mission: To break language, educational, and cultural barriers for our Chuukese Community that will help community members and their future generations thrive in the City of Vancouver, Washington. Equity priority communities served: BIPOC, communities with limited English proficiency, immigrants and refugees, young people and older adults. Recent Meeting Summaries Community Advisory Group (CAG) — Oct. 12
The CAG received program updates regarding tours and presentations that continue to occur in the community. The CAG received an update on the newly formed Community Benefits Advisory Group (CBAG), including an overview of the group charter, scope, and membership. Discussion included how CAG members would like to engage with CBAG and how IBR can best engage the community around the CBAG’s work for meaningful impact. Following this discussion, the topic of tolling on IBR was addressed, including an overview of how tolling decisions are made in Washington and Oregon. An update on recent community engagement activities was also provided, including a recap of summer 2023, 50% of which were with equity priority communities. The team’s updates included a summary of the second round of Community-Based Organization (CBO) mini grants.
Equity Advisory Group (EAG) — Oct. 16
The EAG began their meeting with program updates, including a recap of recent program tours. EAG members shared their tour experiences, such as impressions of the program area and investments, which several members identified were easier to understand viewing them in person. An update on recent community engagement activities included information on the recently awarded CBO mini grants. The EAG then received an overview of CBAG, reviewing how community benefits are defined by the program, as well as the purpose and scope of the CBAG. In addition, an equity framework accountability report was presented, asking the EAG for feedback: did the report meet expectations and what recommendations do they have for improvement? To close, EAG members shared takeaways from the meeting.
Executive Steering Group (ESG) — Oct. 18
The ESG received several program updates, including a recap of the 2023 legislative actions that committed the remaining non-federal matching funds needed for the program; a review of recent program tours and conferences at which the IBR program has presented; and an updated program schedule. An update on federal grants was also presented, including the recent Mega Grant application submitted and upcoming federal grants. The group also received a summary of community engagement activities for the year so far. The ESG then received an overview of the CBAG and how community benefits are defined by the program, offering examples of issues the CBAG will address to make the IBR program fit within the context of the community. Updates were followed by public comment, and the meeting closed with next steps, focusing on upcoming program work and construction delivery.
Community Benefits Advisory Group (CBAG) — Oct. 26
The CBAG began their meeting with introductions. After receiving program updates, the group gave their feedback and approved the CBAG charter. IBR staff presented examples of community benefits, which was followed by questions from CBAG members and small groups discussion reflecting on the elements shared and if they were meaningful for the communities represented by the advisory group. Members reconvened and shared a report of their discussions with the larger group.
Bi-state Legislative Committee – Nov 3
The IBR program provided updates to members of the Oregon and Washington legislatures that make up the Bi-state Legislative Committee for feedback and discussion. Updates included an overview of recent activity, anticipated funding sources including federal grant updates, an overview of program investments being studied as part of the Draft Supplemental Environmental Impact Statement (SEIS) process, and an overview of upcoming program work and milestones.
Meeting video and materials can be found here. Myth vs. Fact Myth: A new bridge that meets height requirtments for river users would be overly steep and contain sharp turns. Fact: The program will ensure that any design accounts for the safety of all modes of travel and will meet or exceed all local, federal, and state safety and design standards. A 116-foot fixed span height was proposed because this was the option selected for the previous project that best balanced the needs of air, land and water travel while minimizing environmental impacts. While the previous planning effort identified a grade of just under 4%, the replacement bridge has not been designed and a final road grade has not been identified. It is not unusual to have highway grades at 4% or steeper. In both Oregon and Washington there are stretches of interstate highway that feature grades steeper than 5%. The program will consider all users when making decisions, including those who walk, bike and roll using various modes of active transportation. On the Horizon Upcoming Advisory Group Meetings & Events Equity Advisory Group
Monday, Nov. 20 — 5:30 PM – 7:30 PM
IBR Public Briefing
Thursday, Dec. 7— 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Community Benefits Advisory Group
Thursday, Dec. 14 — 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Community Advisory Group
Thursday, Dec. 14 — 4:00 PM – 6:00 PM Meetings & Events Calendar IBR Office Hours Do you have questions and want to speak to a real person? We answer questions on a range of topics, including design, equity, Disadvantaged and Small Business Enterprise opportunities, community engagement, financial plans, and much more! Join us for IBR office hours, in person or virtually, and get your questions answered! NOTE: No new technical data will be available until the release of the environmental documentation. Please make a 30-minute reservation at least 24 hours in advance. There are three ways you can make a reservation: Visit: SignUpGenius
Email: info@interstatebridge.org
Call: 888-503-6735 Please provide your contact information and what you would like to talk about. We will confirm your appointment and provide meeting details upon confirmation. See you there! |
Council Chambers in City Hall are Closed for RenovationsMembers of city council will attend meetings virtually. Community members can watch meetings and provide testimony in the Lizzie Weeks Room at the Portland Building. Community members can view the broadcast of this meeting on the
IBR Hosted Virtual Public BriefingThe Interstate Bridge Replacement (IBR) program is excited to invite you to learn about what is happening with the program and ways to engage at a virtual public briefing Thursday, December 7, from 6 – 7:30 pm. Attendees have an opportunity to submit questions before and during the event. A written response will be provided for topics that are not addressed during the briefing. Please register for the meeting in advance. 
Ugly Sweater Events in St. JohnsJoin your neighbors as we light up St. Johns for the holidays! The Boosters and local businesses present a series of celebrations to revel in the most festive of seasons with Ugly Sweater Events. Don your best ugly sweater and have a cheers with your neighbors at the Ugly Sweater Bar Crawl on December 9, starting at Leisure Public House at 6 pm. 
Bridgeton Neighborhood Association Holiday CheerJoin the Bridgeton Neighborhood Association in spreading Holiday Cheer at a local institution, 
Kenton Holiday WalkMeet your neighbors at the corner of N. Brandon & N. Terry on December 15 at 5:30 pm to stroll through the neighborhood and business district to enjoy the store displays and lights. Finish the night with cookies and cocoa at the corner of N. Kilpatrick & N. Denver 
PIR Winter WonderlandExperience the Pacific Northwest’s premier holiday light show, Winter Wonderland, touted as the “Largest Holiday Light Show West of the Mississippi” since 1993. Enjoy over 250 vibrant light set pieces and animated scenes during this spectacular drive-through event, supporting Sunshine Division’s hunger relief efforts for Portland families in need. Event goes through December 31. Dates and times vary. Click below for more info. 
Shape the Future of Public ArtPlease share your opinions to inform the Portland City Council’s decision about the fate of five monuments that were toppled or removed in 2020. Community Members will play an important role in shaping the future of monuments in our city. To stay up-to-date on next steps and additional engagement opportunities, subscribe to the 
Oregon Economic Outlook: Stability Amongst Challenges in the December ForecastIn Oregon’s latest economic update, the December revenue forecast points to a stable economy with low inflation and unemployment. Lawmakers gear up for the 2024 session, focusing on critical issues like the drug addiction crisis, homelessness, and childcare. The report reveals more people leaving the state in 2022, prompting bipartisan efforts for a safer and more affordable Oregon.
Free North Portland Pass Starting December 1, all North Portland residents are eligible for a free North Portland Pass at Matt Dishman Community Center. This pass allows free access to the center’s fitness room and drop-in pool activities. 
North Portland Events CalendarIntroducing the North Portland Events Calendar! Coordinated by Kevin Micalizzi of Arbor Lodge, this centralized Google Calendar aims to boost community engagement by showcasing and coordinating events from various neighborhood associations. Become an editor to add your events. For invitations, email Kevin at 
Zoning & Land UsePublic notices for North Portland
NPLUG+TNPLUG+T is a forum for land use and transportation. Representatives from the Bureau of Transportation, Planning and Sustainability, and Development Services are invited to provide updates, trainings and presentations on projects impacting North Portland. Hybrid meetings are typically held at The Historic Kenton Firehouse the last Thursday of the month 7 – 8:30 pm. The December NPLUG+T meeting will be held on December 6, 7 – 8:30 pm. 
NPNS ChairsNeighborhood association chairs from North Portland come together to share insights and updates on a wide range of topics, from urban development and sustainability to social initiatives that enhance our neighborhoods. All are welcome to attend. Hybrid meetings are held at the Historic Kenton Firehouse on the first Monday of the month from 6 – 8 pm. 
Portland COAD The 
PSACPublic Safety Action Committee (PSAC) is a monthly meeting held to address local North Portland resident and business concerns related to public safety and livability issues. Virtual meetings are held the third Thursday of the month from 7 – 8:30 pm. 
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Welcome New Neighborhood Association Board Members!We are delighted to extend a warm welcome to our newest Neighborhood Association Board Members. Thank you for stepping up and taking an active role in shaping our community’s future! To ensure you are well-prepared and equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills, we are excited to announce a Board Member Training on December 4 from 5:30-6:30 pm at the Historic Kenton Firehouse and on zoom. 
Free North Portland Pass Starting December 1, all North Portland residents are eligible for a free North Portland Pass at Matt Dishman Community Center. This pass allows free access to the center’s fitness room and drop-in pool activities. 
City of Portland Transition UpdateOn November 1, Portland City Council approved the City’s new organizational structure that will take effect on July 1, 2024. Portland’s new form of government officially launches January 2025, transitioning day-to-day oversight of bureaus to the mayor, supported by a professional city administrator. 
Zoning & Land UsePublic notices for North Portland
NPLUG+TNPLUG+T is a forum for land use and transportation. Representatives from the Bureau of Transportation, Planning and Sustainability, and Development Services are invited to provide updates, trainings and presentations on projects impacting North Portland. Hybrid meetings are typically held at The Historic Kenton Firehouse the last Thursday of the month 7 – 8:30 pm. The Next NPLUG+T meeting will be held on December 6, 7 – 8:30 pm. 
NPNS ChairsNeighborhood association chairs from North Portland come together to share insights and updates on a wide range of topics, from urban development and sustainability to social initiatives that enhance our neighborhoods. All are welcome to attend. Hybrid meetings are held at the Historic Kenton Firehouse on the first Monday of the month from 6 – 8 pm. 
Portland COAD The 
PSACPublic Safety Action Committee (PSAC) is a monthly meeting held to address local North Portland resident and business concerns related to public safety and livability issues. Virtual meetings are held the third Thursday of the month from 7 – 8:30 pm. Sargent Kristine Butcher has requested that attendees view this 
Copyright (C) 2023 Office of Community & Civic Life. All rights reserved.
East Columbia Neighborhood Association 