Activation of IFCC
In July 2021, Portland City Council approved a $500,000 allocation of American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) funds to support relief and recovery for Black artists. Through this grant program, now being developed, Black artists will receive free space at IFCC and funding to produce work and present public programs at the center. This funding is part of $2 million that Portland City Council approved for the overall Relief and Recovery for Artists of Color program.
The grant program is being developed in a partnership between the IFCC CAC, Portland Parks & Recreation, the City Arts Program, and the Regional Arts & Culture Council (RACC). More details to come soon!
Accessibility Notes
Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center is fully wheelchair accessible.
Size in acres
Year acquired
History
Interstate Firehouse Cultural Center (IFCC) is a community-based arts center located in north Portland at 5340 N Interstate Avenue. The IFCC was founded in 1982 by Portland's first African-American elected official, Commissioner Charles Jordan. The building was originally constructed in 1910 as a fire station and was in use until 1959. The renovated structure now contains a 99-seat theater, gallery, and rehearsal/dance studio.
The building is owned by Portland Parks & Recreation, a City of Portland Bureau, and was managed by IFCC, Inc. until May 2010, when the non-profit ceased operations. In August 2010, management authority was given to Ethos, Inc. by a unanimous vote of the Portland city council. Ethos returned management responsibilities to the City of Portland on December 31, 2014 to redirect their resources to support expanded outreach in communities throughout Oregon. Portland Parks & Recreation took over management responsibilities on January 1, 2015 and is committed to honoring the rich traditions of this historic space.