Over the last four years, the OTCA has grown to take on more direct action and manage larger projects as we rebuild our City. In recent times we have:

Continuous advocadcacy with City, County and State leaders

In mid-2023, we established 90-day and 1-year reset plans to increase safety, cleanliness and sidewalk access, resulting in increased outreach to homeless camps and reduction of tents from over 400 to under 80.

Advocacy for new market rate housing development. Old Town will increase its quality of life dramatically with new residents. A Board committee meets with Prosper Portland leadership bi-weekly to continue to press for appropriate use of the remaining funds from the $56M Action Plan for 2014-2024 to create housing in the area.

Creation of Perpetual Trust with initial $2M state grant awarded March 2024. Looking to develop a new future of fashion business district in heart of Old Town

Clean and safe environment

Developed outreach program OASIS to assist houseless folk Old Town and get them moved off the street & to safety and accommodation

Project management

Managed $2MM of capital improvement projects for the City of Portland

Lantern Project: Developed a pilot project that will allow string lights/lanterns across streets and won a $46,000 Venture Portland grant to fund the installation and engineering required

Secured significant ARPA funding for local businesses and properties to improve security and beautify the neighborhood with new trees and protective treewells.

Began decommissioning and removing offensive sculptures on the Chinatown Festival Streets

Steel Bridge Skatepark: Advocated for and won $15MM for the creation of the Steel Bridge Skatepark

Chinatown Gate Restoration: Won $450,000 to restore the Chinatown gates, re-tiling and re-painting it in its entirety

Marketing

Redesigned pdxoldtown.org to be a helpful tool to community members and visitors showcasing local businesses and arts and culture orginisations in our neighbourhood

Partnered with Travel Portland to create a walking loop on new NEAR ME NOW app to circle the best of downtown and Old Town and drive foot traffic

Maintain calendar of events and social media presence to promote local events

Purchased advertising on Trimet busses lasting 2 years at heavily discounted rate

Small Business Recruitment

Our Business Navigator focuses on attracting new businesses into the neighborhood with an emphasis on Women, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+. owned businesses and helps existing businesses with finance, proposals, contracts and leases.

Recruited and assisted with leases for 15 new businesses in Old Town

Events & Art Openings

Hosted 48 events, gave out $180,000 in grants, and sponsored 24 artists with gallery openings

Ongoing advocay to create named Cultutral District and Entertainment Districts in Old Town