The Portland Files: A New Series

It has been a while since I have posted anything since I had to digest the amazing trip I had in August 2016. As an urban planner I was treated to a city that has seemingly done things right in many aspects, from its top class public transit system, to its outstanding support for small businesses. The food scene makes you want to stay in Portland forever.

But a closer look shows the city hasn't been too honest. Gentrification in many inner city neighbourhoods have shoved households in poverty to the already-stricken east end. Housing cost is now increasing faster than many red hot markets in the US. Suburban development typical of cities without growth management policies, continue to show up in areas of the west end. 

To document all of this, I will be starting a brand new series titled "The Portland Files", a collection of thoughts about the state of urban planning in the Rose City. 

But a bit of a disclaimer. I love Portland but I do not live there. I am an observer but not an expert. I think of Portland as an utopia, but I am also a realist. So join me in this journey as I delve into the good, the bad, and the ugly of what it has to offer.