The Portland Metro Chamber strongly endorses legislation that would enable Albina Vision Trust to transform surplus land from the I-5 Rose Quarter Project into a vibrant, community-led development. This initiative represents a vital opportunity to address historical injustices while creating economic opportunity in a key Portland neighborhood.
Albina Vision Trust is doing more than simply rebuilding the community in Lower Albina, they are building one of the most innovative and dynamic neighborhoods in the world.
A Model for Community-Centered Growth
The proposed legislation would allow the Oregon Department of Transportation to transfer property to Albina Vision Trust, enabling a transformative public-private partnership. The Chamber supports this initiative because it:
- Empowers community-led development that centers historically displaced residents
- Strengthens Portland’s economic future with new housing, retail, and commercial space
- Establishes a collaborative model uniting public, private, and community partners
As Executive Vice President of Public Affairs, Jon Isaacs noted, “We simply don’t have the luxury of kicking the can any longer. The Portland business community is grateful for leadership willing to finally solve these clear problems.”
Portland’s Economic Stakes
The Chamber’s State of the Economy report confirms that the Portland region is experiencing a localized recession while much of the nation expands. With state tax revenue per capita in Multnomah County 56% higher than the rest of Oregon, Portland’s growth is essential for the state’s fiscal health. This project represents precisely the kind of investment needed to reverse concerning economic trends.
More Than a Land Use Decision
The legislation includes appropriate safeguards, including a 2030 sunset provision and requirements that property sold from the State Highway Fund must be at fair market value with proceeds returning to that fund.
We believe this initiative is more than a land use decision—it’s an investment in economic justice and long-term prosperity for Portland and the entire state. The Portland Metro Chamber remains committed to advocating for policies that strengthen our region’s economic foundation while creating a more equitable community for all.
Learn more about the measure.
Read Andrew Hoan’s full testimony
The Portland Metro Chamber invites our members to support this initiative and other approaches that strengthen Oregon’s economic future.