Mill Park Reopens with Improvements

(Portland, OR) –

Portland Parks & Recreation's (PP&R) highly anticipated Mill Park project is complete and open to all. PP&R has transformed the six-acre space into a vibrant community hub featuring a state-of-the-art playground, splash pad, new Portland Community Garden, picnic shelter and tables, Chin Lone* court, Portland Loo restroom, fitness area, paved paths, a central promenade/gathering area, public art, and other amenities. 

Mill Park, located at 1949 SE 122nd Avenue in East Portland, also features many preserved mature trees, 74 newly planted trees to dramatically increase East Portland's tree canopy, and a new irrigation system to support the growth of new trees, shrubs, and lawns. 

View full size image of Two people play on a new playground feature at the newly-developed Mill Park in outer east Portland on a recent sunny day.

"The new Mill Park will be a centerpiece of a lively community," says Portland Parks & Recreation Director Adena Long. "From the splash pad to the playground and gardens, it is a neighborhood gem with plenty of space to play, exercise, and reflect. It will also be a beloved destination for Mill Park Elementary students and families."

A Park Designed for the Community  

Mill Park's redesign reflects the diverse needs of its surrounding neighborhoods. Adjacent to Mill Park Elementary, which serves 508 students, 78% identify as people of color or Native/Indigenous, and 44% as English-as-second-language learners. About 85% of the students qualify for free or reduced lunch. The park now includes:  

• A state-of-the-art playground and splash pad for kids and families 
• Portland's first Chin Lone court celebrates Southeast Asian cultures, where players pass a wicker ball using only their heads and feet. 
• A new community garden provides opportunities for neighbors to grow produce 
• Accessibility improvements include closer bus stops and continuous sidewalks connecting the park, school, and SE 122nd Avenue.  

The park's lush greenery also received an upgrade. PP&R planted 74 new trees to complement the mature trees already thriving at the site. These existing and new trees provide community benefits and dramatically enhance the area's much-needed tree canopy. For more information, visit the park's project website at portland.gov/parks/construction/mill-park-project.  

A Collaborative Vision Comes to Life  

Mill Park's transformation was a collaborative effort involving PP&R, the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), and TriMet. PBOT's "Building a Safer 122nd Avenue" initiative brought vital safety improvements to the surrounding area, including upgraded sidewalks and pedestrian crossings. Feedback from community members and the Parks Accessibility Advisory Committee drove the park's accessibility upgrades, including a bus stop relocation to improve access.  

Portland-based Mayer/Reed led the park's redesign, incorporating a central promenade that unites its new amenities. Raimore Construction, a local minority-owned firm renowned for creating opportunities for underrepresented workers, led the work at the site.  

View full size image of Public art by local Mill Park-area artist Alex Chiu, as seen shortly after the park's opening in January 2025.

Public Art that Reflects the Neighborhood  

Alex Chiu, a Portland artist and Mill Park neighborhood resident, created the park's public art. Chiu captured the stories of the neighborhood, weaving voices into the park's design. His Instagram page, @millparkstories, offers a glimpse into the people and places that inspired his work.  

A New Portland Community Garden

The new Mill Park Community Garden plots are now open for registration. To request one, please fill out the plot request form. PP&R Community Gardens staff will assign plots in March or April.

What's Next?  

Mill Park is now open for public use, and a few finishing touches—including a picnic shelter—are scheduled for completion this spring. The park's Portland Loo and water fountains will reopen when temperatures rise. PP&R is planning a grand opening celebration to welcome the community to Mill Park this spring officially.  

View full size image of Park visitors enjoy the new Mill Park playground under the shade of large trees on a January day in 2025.

Project Background  

Park System Development Charges (SDCs), one-time fees from new developments that support Portland's growing infrastructure, funded the redevelopment of Mill Park guided by the park's 2017 Plan. Community engagement through events led by PP&R and the Division Midway Alliance played a vital role in helping the public shape the park's final design.  

MEDIA NOTE: Interviews with Portland Parks & Recreation staff are available upon request. 

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