Portland Public Market

In February of 2000, friends of the proposed Portland Public Market engaged in a day-long conceptual charrette that resulted in their defining the essential characteristics of a successful Market for Portland. After that catalyzing convocation, the direction and the complexity of the tasks became clearer. The path from dream to reality would require a commitment to maintaining a clear vision while never losing site of the devilish details. Site selection criteria crystallized and potential locations gained clarity, but there were still many hurdles, both anticipated and unanticipated, to overcome.

The project would require partnerships with private donors, the Portland City Council, the Development Commission, and federal and state agencies. Other regional partners also would play key roles including the long-standing crafts venue, Saturday Market, and the area's Farmers Markets. At the time, the best estimate for completing the process was five to seven years. Over six years later, and after diligent effort encountered unforeseen setbacks, the detailed process continues, seasoned (quite literally) by doses of political reality.

Tasks still underway or having already been accomplished at least once include:

Phase One Tasks

Create a detailed building program

Design a fundraising strategy

Develop a public outreach strategy

Secure funds for planning and design, and publish fundraising materials

Phase Two tasks:

Define site selection criteria, identify and evaluate alternative sites, select potential site

Identify site acquisition and development costs, operational costs and
cash flow; identify sources of funding

Define governing structure and draft operational guidelines

Design and publish Feasibility Report