Senator Ron Wyden

November 18, 2003

Washington, DC – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden (D-Ore.) and Gordon Smith (R-Ore.) today announced Senate approval of $1.6 million for the redevelopment of the North Macadam area. The funds will develop a waterfront greenway, provide more than 200 units of affordable housing, and extend streetcar service to the area. These funds were included in the FY2004 Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development and Independent Agencies spending bill.

“North Macadam will be the centerpiece of an economic rebirth in Portland, attracting the businesses and jobs of the future,” said Wyden. “By working together and focusing on creative solutions, we’re going to revitalize the South Waterfront and make it an engine economic growth.”

“These projects will create an economic hub that will spread to reinvigorate the entire Portland area,” said Smith. “The additional affordable housing, family-wage jobs, and beautification of the South Waterfront area will bring not only dollars but enjoyment for residents and visitors alike.”

The Portland Development Commission (PDC) will receive $1 million for the South Waterfront Greenway Project, creating construction jobs, redeveloping a former industrial site and employing hundreds of Oregonians. Additionally, the PDC would receive $400,000 for affordable housing in the North Macadam Central District. These units would serve households at 50 to 80 percent of median family income, addressing the need for low-income housing in the area.

The City of Portland would also receive $200,000 for the Central City Eastside Streetcar Project, extending service to the eastside of the Willamette River and connecting North Macadam to the rest of the city.

The Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives must now agree on a final FY2004 Veterans Affairs, Housing and Urban Development and Independent Agencies spending bill before it is sent to the president for his signature.

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