ECNA Welcomes All to come discuss new development
Local Issues

You’re Invited: May 14 – ECNA Meeting on New Development Proposal

TL;DR:
A representative from SEI (Self Enhancement, Inc.) will join our May 14 East Columbia Neighborhood Association (ECNA) meeting to discuss a proposed development on NE 13th. Come learn more and ask questions!

What’s Happening

Hi neighbors! As many of you have noticed, there is a proposed housing development on the east side of NE 13th Avenue, between South Shore Road and NE Gertz Road. This proposal has raised some important concerns from the community—particularly around zoning changes, the density of the housing units, environmental effects, and stormwater runoff.

In response, ECNA has invited a representative from Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI), the organization behind the proposal, to come speak with our community. This will be a chance to hear directly from SEI, ask questions, and better understand the vision for this project.

Meeting Details
Date: Tuesday, May 14
Time: Arrive at 6:30 PM – Meeting starts promptly at 7:00 PM
Location: Columbia Community Bible Church, 420 NE Marine Drive, Portland, OR 97211

We encourage all neighbors—whether you live right next to the proposed site or are just curious about how our neighborhood is growing—to attend and take part.

Why It Matters

Housing development can bring both opportunity and challenge. By staying informed and engaged, we help shape growth that reflects the values, priorities, and concerns of our neighborhood. If you have concerns about stormwater runoff, increased traffic, or wetlands preservation, your voice matters.

See You There!

This meeting is a great chance for neighbors to connect, get clarity on what’s being proposed, and help guide the direction of future development in East Columbia. We hope to see you on May 14.

📩 Have questions before the meeting? Reach out to ECNA at ecnaboard@gmail.com.

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Local Issues

New Housing Development Proposed for NE 13th

TL;DR Summary
A new 49-unit housing development is being proposed at 9801 NE 13th Avenue, just west of the South Shore Acres subdivision. The project will be built in two phases and includes a mix of townhomes, duplexes, and single-family homes, along with wetland restoration, boardwalk paths, and community amenities.

Proposed Residential Development

The East Columbia Neighborhood Association has received notice of a new development proposed by Self Enhancement, Inc. (SEI) for the 6.48-acre site at 9801 NE 13th Avenue. This large parcel, currently bordered by BES-owned land and residential subdivisions, would be developed in two phases to bring a total of 49 new homes to the area.

This notice was shared as part of the City of Portland’s Neighborhood Contact requirements, which aim to keep communities informed early in the development process.

What’s Being Proposed

The site is zoned R10 with several overlay zones, including height restrictions (for aircraft safety), airport noise limits, environmental conservation, and land constraint protections. To build within these conditions, SEI will pursue a Planned Development with Environmental Review, allowing them to creatively cluster housing and preserve sensitive areas.

Highlights from the Proposal:

Phase 1 (31 units)

  • 24 townhouse units (in six 4-unit buildings)
  • 4 duplex units (2 buildings)
  • 3 single detached homes
  • 52 off-street parking stalls
  • Landscaped areas and pathways
  • Boardwalks and wetland restoration
  • NE 13th Ave frontage improvements

Phase 2 (18 units)

  • 4 townhouse units (1 building)
  • 6 duplex units (3 buildings)
  • 8 single detached homes
  • A small **Community Building**
  • 43 off-street parking stalls
  • Additional landscaping, pathways, and wetland restoration

Why It Matters

This project could bring much-needed new housing to the area while also integrating environmental protections and community infrastructure. The plan includes boardwalks and wetland restoration, suggesting a focus on blending development with nature.

However, with additional homes comes the potential for more traffic, infrastructure demands, and neighborhood change—factors community members may wish to learn more about or provide input on.

How to Stay Informed or Get Involved

The proposal is still early in the process. It will go through a Type III land use review, which includes an official public hearing and input from the City’s Hearings Officer.

For questions or to learn more:
Contact: Pooja Dalal, SEI Housing Development Senior Manager
Email: poojad@selfenhancement.org
Phone: (503) 249-1721

Neighbors interested in the project are encouraged to reach out to SEI directly or follow updates through the City of Portland’s land use notices. This is your chance to stay informed and ensure community voices are heard as plans take shape.

Submitted to ECNA per Portland’s Neighborhood Contact rules. Development by Self Enhancement, Inc. at 9801 NE 13th Ave.

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