The Heart of Sunday Parkways: Volunteers in Action
Every Sunday Parkways event is powered by the spirit of community—and at the heart of that spirit are our volunteers. In 2024, an incredible 242 volunteers dedicated 1,470 hours to make these open-street celebrations possible. Whether guiding participants at intersections, supporting our information booths, or monitoring a section of the route by bike, our volunteers are the reason Sunday Parkways continues to thrive.
From first-time helpers (47% in 2024!) to those who have supported the program year after year, their contributions ensure that attendees can enjoy walking, biking, rolling, and connecting with their neighbors in a safe car-free environment.
Here’s what some of our amazing volunteers had to say about why they volunteer at these events:
- “I love how all ages & types & demographics all come out for a big, shared experience on bicycles. Everyone has a good time.” Daniel, returning volunteer
- “It was a friendly, open event. I saw lots of people having fun. Many friendly, happy people were able to enjoy the nice day. This was a wonderful, family-friendly event!” - Liz, first-time volunteer
- “Assisting the community with keeping the public really happy and active during the summer!” - Phil, returning volunteer
Looking ahead, we invite you to join this inspiring group of community leaders in 2025! Whether you feel happiest volunteering at an intersection or from your bike seat, we love and appreciate the help! Volunteering with Sunday Parkways is an opportunity to give back, meet new friends, and contribute to a healthier, more connected Portland.
To learn more about volunteer opportunities for an organization, individuals, or groups during the 2025 event season, please email Sundayparkways@axiomeventproductions.com.
Transportation News & Resources
Cast your vote to name five PBOT snowplows
The submissions are in, 20 names have been chosen, and now the Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) calls on the public to help choose the top five snowplow names.
After two weeks of submitting names, 4,000 Portlanders came up with over 3,000 unique snowplow names.
Vote for your favorite names using ranked choice voting by Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 5:00 p.m.
Find rules, contest timeline, and more on the snowplow contest website.
Justin Timberlake Joins the Ride: Bike Bus Magic in NE Portland
This past Sunday, Justin Timberlake joined Bike Bus World and many community members for an unforgettable ride in Northeast Portland! Watch the Instagram recap video.
The buzz around bike buses has been contagious, and it's easier than you think to start one yourself. Create your own bike bus and bring your community together!
📸Courtesy Sam Balto & Ready Go Pictures
Learn How to Start Your Own Bike Bus
Explore the 2024 SmartTrips Report
Portland SmartTrips is the City’s program for information and resources for getting around by walking, biking, and riding public transportation. Information and resources are made available online and monthly mailings are sent to new movers as an invite to participate in the program. SmartTrips concluded the fiscal year 2024 with a full twelve months of regular operation!
New ODOT advisory committee to help improve accessibility
The Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT) is establishing a new advisory committee dedicated to enhancing accessibility for people with disabilities. This Universal Accessibility Advisory Committee (UAAC) will serve as a vital resource for improving transportation across the state for people with disabilities.
Get involved: Members of the community are invited to participate in this important initiative by applying to serve on the committee. ODOT encourages people with disabilities, advocates, and interested community members to contribute their perspectives.
Applications are due by January 20, 2025. For more information about the Advisory Committee and how to get involved, please contact OECR_UAAC@ODOT.Oregon.Gov.
Save the Date: 2025 Oregon Active Transportation Summit
The Street Trust is excited to announce the 2025 Oregon Active Transportation Summit (OATS) will be held on Wednesday, April 23 - Friday, April 25 at The Doubletree by Hilton Hotel Portland.
For 14 years, OATS has brought together hundreds of government practitioners, nonprofit leaders, private sector experts, and community advocates to advance innovative solutions in active transportation and public transit.
This year’s theme, Reclaiming the Basics: Safe Streets and Active Transportation for a Connected Oregon, is focused on shifting the conversation around transportation away from the status quo, and realigning with equity, safety, accessibility, and climate resilience as foundational priorities.
In the Community
82nd Ave Transit Project
TriMet is upgrading bus service on 82nd Avenue to TriMet FX®–Frequent Express. This will bring more service reliability and faster travel times, plus safety and accessibility improvements, to the corridor. Learn about the project design and share your thoughts with staff during the Open House on Wednesday, January 22 from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. at PCC Southeast Campus, Community Hall Annex.
Discover Multnomah Village: A Charming Hub of Food, Shops, and Parks
Explore the best of Multnomah Village with Portland Monthly's neighborhood guide! From cafes and top-tier restaurants to boutiques and parks, this community offers something for everyone. In 2023 and 2024, Multnomah Village played host to the Southwest Sunday Parkways event, showcasing its vibrant streets and community spirit.
Take the PDX Sidewalk Joy Map with You on Your Next Stroll
The PDX Sidewalk Joy Map, created by PDX FLAG and PDX Dinorama, showcases the group of curated galleries, exchanges, and displays along Portland's sidewalks.
Installed in curb gardens, front yards or sides of buildings these projects were created to bring a bit of whimsy and inspiration to the community.
Volunteer Spotlight
Are you a Sunday Parkways volunteer? We want to highlight you in our Volunteer Spotlight! Send an email with the below prompts completed and include a photo of yourself (optional) to portlandsundayparkways@portlandoregon.gov.
- Your Name:
- How long you have volunteered with Sunday Parkways
- What makes you want to volunteer at these events
- Share an interesting fact about yourself
Mark Your Calendar
Keep Alive the Dream
Monday, January 20
11:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.
Hyatt Regency Portland
Free
Celebrate the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. with the World Arts Foundation. The historic event honors pioneering activists, community leaders, artists, musicians and youth whose efforts have left lasting impacts in Oregon’s African American community.
Lunar New Year Lantern Viewing Evenings
January 29 - February 23
Times vary
Lan Su Chinese Garden
Tickets Required
In celebration of the Year of the Snake, Lan Su opens up after dark for its annual lantern viewing evenings. Grab a timed ticket to catch an illuminated dragon dance and energetic procession from Portland Lee’s Association Dragon & Lion Dance Team.