See something we could improve on this page? Give website feedback.
Label:
News article
Thanks to those who joined us at the Kickoff Celebration! Here’s a summary of what was shared and heard. Stay tuned for more opportunities to be involved.
Published
On Thursday, Feb. 27, the Reconnecting Albina Planning Project (RAPP) hosted Envisioning a Reconnected Albina: A Kickoff Celebration at Harriet Tubman Middle School. It was a lively event with over 200 in attendance, bringing together community members, leaders, partners, advocates, and local organizations.
We appreciated the thoughtful conversations, ideas, and commitment to reconnecting Albina. The community is ready to engage in shaping the future of this neighborhood!
Inspiring speakers, impactful messages
The event opened with the wisdom and reflection of longtime residents who shared their experiences growing up in Albina. These stories painted a picture of Albina’s past as a thriving Black neighborhood with culturally rich amenities and a strong sense of community.
Speakers representing the RAPP partnership then celebrated this important project milestone and reflected on the community-led efforts that got us to where we are today, as well as the next steps to come.
Event stations: explore and engage
The community explored project elements and the work to date at three main stations organized around the following themes: Public Spaces, Development, and Movement. Each station provided a chance for direct dialogue with project partners. We also invited attendees to participate at an interactive feedback station to offer their thoughts, issues, opportunities across the district.
Review the event station materials.
Community voices: what you shared!
Throughout the event, we heard powerful reflections on the neighborhood's history, past harms and displacement impacts, and the community's vision for the future.
A few things the community emphasized:
- A strong desire for Albina to become a walkable, vibrant, and inclusive mixed-use neighborhood.
- Reconnect displaced community and increase neighborhood affordability.
- Increase community serving opportunities
- Wealth-building and ownership opportunities
- Prioritize livability by focusing on safety, connectivity and accessibility.
“Preserve the remaining cultural and historical sites that reflect Black past and resilience.” - Event Participant
The work continues: looking ahead
Stay in the loop about future events and opportunities to participate by signing up for project updates.
If you were unable to make it, we are still collecting feedback through the interactive Pin It Tool through Monday, March 31. We would love to hear from you!