Portland Residents Shape New Slabtown Park Design
The city is seeking community feedback for a planned one-acre park project located in the Slabtown neighborhood.
Updated on Oct. 15, 2026 in Civic Engagement
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Portland is gathering resident input on the design of a new park following the acquisition of land at NW 20th Avenue and NW Pettygrove Street in August 2025. The site, formerly home to Consolidated Freightways' headquarters, requires soil cleanup before development begins.
Why it matters
The development fulfills requirements established in the 2012 Con-Way Master Plan and provides necessary green space for the area. Soil testing at the one-acre property has confirmed the presence of low levels of arsenic, necessitating cleanup efforts prior to construction.
The park project is backed by a $5 million total budget for the one-acre site. Construction is slated to take place from summer 2028 through summer 2029.
The players
Portland
Portland is the major city in Oregon that is overseeing the redevelopment and park planning efforts in the Slabtown district.
Consolidated Freightways
Consolidated Freightways was a major trucking company that previously operated its headquarters on the site where the park is now being developed.
The details
The project site at NW 20th Avenue and NW Pettygrove Street requires significant pavement removal and environmental remediation to address soil contamination. Residents have until October 22, 2026, to provide their design input via an online survey.
Timeline
2012: Portland approved the Con-Way Master Plan.
August 2025: The city received the park land.
October 14, 2026: An open house for public input occurred.
October 17, 2026: A meeting with the project team is scheduled at the Northwest Library.
October 22, 2026: Deadline for the online survey.
Political Context
The park development is a direct result of the long-standing 2012 Con-Way Master Plan that governs land use in this section of Portland. Critics and residents have occasionally raised concerns regarding the density and lack of public open spaces in rapidly growing urban areas.
Residents can influence the final design and amenities of the new park by participating in the current public feedback period. This project will eventually provide a new recreational space within a neighborhood where the nearest existing park is 0.4 miles away.
The takeaway
Engaging in city planning processes ensures that new public infrastructure meets the specific needs of local residents. Community members should submit their preferences through the city's survey portal before the October 22 deadline to impact the park's final layout.
Further reading
For more information on local development, visit the Portland Civic Engagement section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by KATU.
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