December 31, 2024 | Alyssa Deitz
As we wrap up 2024 and prepare for a new year, we are thankful to be part of a city that we love and continue to be optimistic about the future of Portland. Many exciting things happened in 2024, from new projects and reemerging events to increased tourism and sports team support. Here are some stories we believe are worth sharing:
Downtown Upturns
Downtown Portland continues to bounce back, and we are thrilled to see things changing for the better.
Downtown Portland saw a 4-year high in summer foot traffic
The James Beard Public Market is set to open and raises $3M in funding
Downtown Portland office leasing surpasses the suburbs
Portland’s winter ice rink returns for a 2nd season
FATHOM art installation extends its Downtown presence
The PNW’s first Ritz-Carlton earns a LEED Gold certification
Art, Food, and Music Features
Creativity has always been a big part of Portland’s reputation, and we love seeing good news from the art world, food scene, and music community.
Project Pabst returns to Tom McCall Waterfront Park
City announces $4 million+ in arts grants
Portland is named one of the world’s best cities for food
Providence Park reopens as an outdoor music venue
‘Coraline’s Curious Cat Trail’ art installation raises $324k
Two Portland locations make Bon Appetit’s 20 Best New Restaurants list
Citywide Victories
Many events over this past year showed promise for Portland’s revitalization and exciting opportunities for its future.
PDX Airport unveils Phase One of its new terminal
Portland is named one of the best places to visit in 2025
The WNBA announces its plan to return to Portland
City Council approves $300 million from PCEF
The Broadway Corridor redevelopment project continues to move forward
The Portland Diamond Project/MLB team gains additional support
Community & Culture Spotlights
“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” — Coretta Scott King
‘Barbie’s Village’ aims to help Native American families
Steel Bridge Skatepark project moves forward with $15 million in funding
“Shop Small Win Big” campaign returns to encourage small business support
The Made in Old Town project aims to revitalize a historic neighborhood
O’Bryant Square renamed to commemorate Darcelle XV
Portland swears in new mayor and 12 city council members
Kerns named one of the coolest neighborhoods in the world
Have a story you enjoyed that isn’t on our list? We would love to hear it! Contact Alyssa Deitz at adeitz@melvinmark.com.