The Portland Metro Chamber is proud to be part of a strong coalition advocating for House Bill 2291, critical legislation that aims to stabilize and grow major festivals and river activation, while transitioning the programming of Waterfront Park to an independent economic development organization.
HB 2291 will provide one-time stabilization funding and transition the management structure of facilities and festivals to align with national best practices, ensuring the long-term financial sustainability of Portland’s signature events, including the Waterfront Blues Festival, Rose Festival, and Portland Winter Light Festival. These festivals attract well over a million visitors to the central city each year, and this bill would also create funds to support and expand diverse festivals throughout the city.
On March 31, business and community leaders testified before the House Committee on Economic Development, Small Business, and Trade, making a compelling case for why this legislation is essential to Portland’s economic recovery and future vibrancy.
Supporting Our Cultural Assets
The State of Oregon has benefitted from Portland's city-wide, cultural and community gatherings that have drawn millions to our state, and untold millions more watching in broadcasts around the world. The positive economic activity benefits the state in both direct spending and the good news attention that our large-scale and legacy festivals provide.
The bill would establish a $10 million festivals grant fund to be administered by the Portland Metro Chamber Charitable Institute, prioritizing critical economic drivers like the Rose Festival, Winter Lights Festival, Blues Festival, and Human Access Project.
Reimagining Waterfront Park
HB 2291 also directs Oregon Solutions and the National Policy Consensus Center to convene stakeholders for a comprehensive study of operating models used by other cities, with the goal of developing recommendations for the future operations and management of Waterfront Park.
Waterfront Park should be one of the city's and the state's greatest assets—not just a site for big summer events, but a well-managed, financially sustainable, and welcoming civic space every day of the year.
The bill would establish a process to examine successful waterfront models from cities like Milwaukee and Seattle, bringing together key stakeholders to develop innovative solutions. This complements ongoing efforts, as Metro and the city have already funded redesigns of the Waterfront Bowl at the south end and are installing a world-class skatepark at the north end.
Economic Impact of Festivals
Data indicate that during legacy festival weekends, downtown Portland experiences a 14-22% increase in foot traffic compared to previous years. These events not only bring joy to attendees but also provide essential economic support to small businesses and retailers across the region.
Our festivals and events are the gateway to the state. They are cultural assets that reflect our values, they give people the opportunity to connect with one another, and bridge divides.
Next Steps
After the public hearing, HB 2291 is scheduled for a work session on April 7. If passed by the committee, the bill will be referred to Ways and Means to secure funding for the grant program.
The Chamber and its coalition partners are committed to advancing this legislation as a key component of downtown Portland’s revitalization strategy, creating a model that could benefit communities across the state of Oregon.
Learn more about the measure.
Read Andrew Hoan’s full testimony
Read Sydney Mead’s full testimony
The Portland Metro Chamber continues to advocate for policies that support a vibrant, prosperous downtown Portland. We invite our members to join us in supporting HB 2291 and other initiatives that strengthen our region’s economic future. Read more about our Six-Month Portland Economic Action Plan.