Placemaking

Place is Powerful


PSU is one of the most important institutions in downtown Portland in terms of its size and mission — and its impact on the city’s community, culture and economy.

The university has launched a future-forward project to enhance its 44-acre campus, creating vibrant and beautiful spaces and places to serve students and ultimately to attract visitors and new partners downtown. It's all part of a 100-year vision for Portland built around arts, culture, education, entertainment and economic revitalization. 

The first phase of the effort will focus on branded signage and entry landmarks; art, lighting and furnishings; storefront activation; and a new welcome center.

What Placemaking Can Do

foster connections

By encouraging in-person interactions that open us all up to new ideas and experiences, cultivating a sense of unity and belonging for students and visitors.

BOOST VITALITY

By attracting new partners and creating extraordinary campus spaces, such as the proposed Portland Performing Arts + Culture Center, to offer mind-expanding experiences in arts, culture and education.

sPARK REVITALIZATION

By leveraging PSU’s strengths as downtown’s most experienced developer to spark economic activation and contribute to Portland’s emerging urban renaissance.

Points of Momentum

POINTS OF MOMENTUM

+ After an international competition, Walker Macy Collaborative was selected to design phase one of the project.

+ A $600,000 gift from Tim and Mary Boyle will jumpstart the placemaking effort.

+ A $30,000 gift will create mini-grants for students and faculty to engage in placemaking projects.
Park Blocks

I believe Portland's success goes hand in hand with PSU's. Placemaking will enhance both the university's campus and the city's vitality.