[downtownpdx]

Revitalization around Portland's Big Pink draws in business

by Deb Knapp and KATU Staff Tue, March 26th 2024 at 7:08 PM

PORTLAND, Ore. (KATU) — Cleanup happening around one of Portland’s iconic landmarks -- Big Pink -- officially the Unico US Bancorp Tower, is drawing in new business nearby.

The area surrounding Big Pink has developed a sour reputation over the past few years.

"We had a lot of drug dealing on Ankeny ally here between fifth and sixth. This was full of garbage and trash and water," said Mark Wells, with the Portland Business Alliance, pointing to the carwash fountain just off Burnside.


But a transformation is underway. It all started a year ago this month with the Ankeny Triangle Improvement Project.

The idea is to revitalize public spaces, like the carwash fountain, which at one time contained soaked garbage in standing water. There were also rows of camping and drug activity.

But a partnership between Unico properties and multiple city of Portland bureaus and the business alliance is trying to turn that around.

"The murals, working with Chevron and the ownership here, chronic graffiti problems and drug dealing, and how can we help? And we're seeing now, literally, it's fun, a year into it. It's not perfect, but it's light-years better," Wells said.

It may be a small step, but it's a tangible change.

"I think the best measuring stick for projects, community enhancement, livability projects is A, are people, residents and businesses staying? Are we retaining what we have? And B, are we recruiting and attracting new businesses?" Wells said.

The reinvestment is happening. Kilo D'Cofi is one of two new businesses to take over leases on the block next to Big Pink.

(continues)https://katu.com/news/local/revitali...mexican-coffee