How Portland Plans to Revive the Central City — and Add Housing
Portland is embarking on a new phase of post-pandemic Central City recovery, which could significantly impact housing production.
The City’s Central City Code Amendments Project (CCCAP) just released a Discussion Draft (City staff’s initial recommendations) for zoning code and map changes aimed at facilitating new housing development and supporting economic revitalization in the Central City.
Staff say the draft was shaped by early outreach with nearly 20 neighborhood, community, and business groups — plus interviews with property owners and developers. Now it’s the broader public’s turn to weigh in.
Why multifamily owners, investors, and developers should care:
- Potential new residential development opportunities exist, ensuring the preservation of scenic and historic resources.
- The Central City zones offer more flexibility to accommodate a wider range of land uses.
- There is a push to activate ground floors, which include retail concentrations and, where appropriate, ground-floor housing.
- Acknowledgment of changing demand—including larger households and families who need larger unit types.
- Efforts to strengthen the Willamette waterfront as both a regional attractor and a neighborhood amenity.
How to learn more and provide feedback (deadline: Friday, Feb. 13, 2026):
- Submit written comments using the project’s Map App (open through Feb. 13).
- Virtual info session #1: Tuesday, Jan. 20, 5:30–7 p.m.
- In-person open house: Wednesday, Jan. 21, 5:30–7:30 p.m., Portland Building, Room 100
- Virtual info session #2: Thursday, Jan. 29, noon–1:30 p.m.
What’s next: After comments close Feb. 13, staff plan to integrate feedback into a proposed draft for the Portland Planning Commission in spring 2026, followed by City Council consideration in summer/fall 2026.
If you’re active (or thinking about getting active) in the Central City, this is one of those “quiet” processes that can reshape the playing field.
Watch HFO’s latest YouTube interviews and subscribe.