Development is moving forward for the Steel Bridge Skatepark, a 63,000 square foot skatepark being built by the City of Portland. The proposed project is located in Portland’s Old Town neighborhood just south of the Steel Bridge. The design team consists of DAO Architecture, Lango Hansen Landscape Architects, Grindline Skateparks, and Dreamland Skateparks.
The proposed skatepark is to be located north of NW Everett St between NW Naito Parkway and NW 1st Ave beneath the on ramp to the Steel Bridge from NW Everett. The proposed location is just east of Portland’s ODOT office and is in the middle of a heavily trafficked transportation corridor.
The project requires coordination between multiple stakeholders including Portland Parks and Recreation (PP&R), Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT), and the Oregon Department of Transportation (ODOT). The land will ultimately be taken over by PP&R. The project has also required coordination with TriMet and the Union Pacific Railroad, which both run directly adjacent to the future skatepark site.
The development of the skatepark is currently being funded by $15 million dollars of System Development Charges along with $364,000 from Prosper Portland. A skatepark of this size has been in talks since Portland Parks and Recreation put out the Skatepark System Plan in 2008, with the Steel Bridge listed as a potential site.
The project held an open house on Sunday, February 15th. The purpose of the open house was to give the community a chance to review design options for the park, meet with designers, give feedback, and engage in a dialogue with all those involved in the project. The open house also served as a tabling event for local organizations. The event culminated in a walking tour of the project site, as well as an additional walking tour of Portland’s Chinatown.
Designs consist of features for both skaters and the public alike broken down into three categories: skate terrain, pedestrian areas, and planting areas. A roof structure for the park is also incorporated into all design options.
Option 1
Design 1 is called “Traverse.” Skate features will be integrated into the park and may include bowls, skateable art, and plaza style elements. Landscaping plantings will be integrated into the design as well, and the park will contain accent lighting and different seating options. Also of note is a designated beginner area. The park is to be covered by an “origami” roof structure consisting of varying geometric forms.
Option 2
Design 2 or “Plaza,” also incorporates various features for public use. This design highlights the use of tiered seating, custom benches, and accent lighting. Skate features include slappy curbs, competition style elements, rails, and stair sets. The roof structure is described as a “folding roof,” and is made up of alternating slopes. Landscaping will also be integrated into the design at tiered seating and within the skate areas.
Option 3
Design 3 is called “Ribbon,” and carries this theme throughout the design. Flowing lines are seen incorporated into skate features, art, and seating. Beginner areas are once again highlighted, along with bowls, skateable art, raised planters, and accent lighting. The roof structure is comprised of honeycomb shaped panels with translucent sections to let natural light into the park.
Construction has an estimated duration of 12-18 months and the project is slated to finish in 2029. The design options are available online at https://www.portland.gov/parks/construction/steel-bridge-skatepark-project-old-town. An online survey will be open until 9am on Monday, March 9th.
Drawings
