In many ways, 2008 was a great year for sustainable community development in Portland. Portland went Platinum, Last Thursday became car free, and Sunday Parkways was unveiled.
On June 22nd, as many as 15,000 Portlanders and neighbors to the region said farewell to foul car fumes at Sunday Parkways, an event where six miles of city streets were closed to vehicles. Walkers, cyclists, joggers, and skaters all came out to enjoy the summer sun. Families were out too, free to enjoy some exercise with their little ones without having to worry about traffic.
Dance groups, DJs, food vendors, pick-up games, child health educators, and many more great activities and entertainers were dispersed throughout four local parks from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Sponsors and grants covered the cost of increased police supervision and intersection regulation. Many of those enjoying themselves at Sunday Parkways expressed optimism that there will be more events for their communities to get together in the future. BikePortland's Jonathon Maus quoted Piedmond resident Dave Harris, who summed up our feelings exactly: "This is just fabulous. Look at all these people here... all creeds and colors, it shows that Portlanders get together, when we want to get together. I love Portland!"
[0]Photo by Jonathon Maus
Media Mentions:
Oregonian June 23, 2008 [1]
BikePortland June 23, 2008 [2]