The City of Portland’s Public Environment Management Office (PEMO) announces the completion of a new wayfinding and beautification project at the SW 3rd and Alder SmartPark garage in Downtown Portland. This initiative addresses community feedback following the temporary closure of the parking garage in 2023. The closure of the garage, owned and operated by the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), was aimed at reallocating maintenance resources to other SmartPark locations.
In response to feedback provided at PEMO’s Downtown Problem Solver meeting, staff convened with local stakeholders including representatives from Pioneer Place Mall, Downtown Retail Council, Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, Travel Portland, and PBOT. Their aim was to formulate a solution that supported both drivers in need of parking and promote local businesses.
The stakeholder group expressed the need for enhanced wayfinding on the temporary plywood coverings installed over the garage’s multiple entrances. To address this, Travel Portland branding was used to create attractive and informative graphic wraps. These wraps are meant to guide visitors to other nearby SmartPark garages and spotlight the businesses located within the garage’s retail space, including, Metro by T-Mobile, Cuốn Vietnamese Street Food, DarSalam Restaurant & Catering, and Medallion Jewelers.
PEMO, in collaboration with Mayor Ted Wheeler’s Office, secured funding for the project. The high-quality vinyl wraps offer durability and aesthetic appeal while less visible boards were painted to match the wayfinding imagery, enhancing the visual continuity of the building.
“By responding proactively to community feedback and collaborating closely with PBOT and our local stakeholders, PEMO has continued to deliver streamlined solutions,” said Mayor Ted Wheeler. “The work at 3rd and Alder underscores our commitment to ensuring Portland remains a vibrant and welcoming city for all who visit, live, and do business here.”
“This project not only enhances the visual landscape of Downtown Portland but also serves as a vital navigation aid during the temporary closure,” said Millicent D. Williams, Director of PBOT. “We are committed to ensuring that both Portlanders and visitors are able to enjoy the best of Downtown, while supporting our local businesses.”
For more information about PEMO, click here.