In a Precedent-Setting Decision, Demolition of the Historic Yamaguchi Hotel is Approved with a Token Nod to Cultural Heritage

The Portland City Council voted unanimously to approve the demolition of the historic Yamaguchi Hotel, also known as the former Blanchet House, picture above. On July 28th, the Portland City Council voted unanimously to approve the demolition of the historic Yamaguchi Hotel (former Blanchet House), a rare and very significant building to the Japanese American/AAPI […]

Misguided Attempt to Boost Affordable Housing Will Create More Demolition, Strip Protections from Historic Districts

UPDATE: Executive Director Peggy Moretti testified on May 25th to the House Committee On Human Services and Housing in Salem. More details as we learn them. Scroll down to the bottom for relevant articles and OpEds. Call to Action: Email Your Opposition to HB 2007! In an extreme example of good intentions degenerating into bad outcomes, a bill […]

Save Milwaukie High School

Annabella Gelmetti, a Milwaukie High School student, brings us her testimony which was delivered to a public meeting hosted by the North Clackamas School District regarding the proposed demolition of the Milwaukie High School. A bond measure was passed which could be used to renovate the school, but instead a new building is proposed. Built […]

Living in a Portland Historic District: FAQ

Restore Oregon has released an updated frequently asked questions (FAQ) handout to address recent statewide rules changes affecting the state’s historic places. This informational overview focuses on new National Register Historic Districts in Portland which are designated after January 2017. It highlights several questions including the following: Can properties in new historic districts be demolished? […]

Portland City Council Responds to RIP Testimony; Continued Advocacy Needed in 2017

Responding to growing support for house preservation in Portland’s older neighborhoods, the City Council on Wednesday voted to significantly amend the much-discussed Residential Infill Project. Although the Council largely supported the concepts presented by the City’s Bureau of Planning and Sustainability, a series of amendments were adopted to “make it more attractive to preserve the […]