Portland, Oregon has a polarizing reputation — it seems drugs and homelessness dominate headlines nationally. Though it has uphill battles like any place, it’s also an undisputed leader in urban design and multi-modal infrastructure. We’re spending the next two weeks here, biking and walking all over the city and its surrounding neighborhoods. Today, we start with three (of many) physical choices that Portland practices well, and that more American cities should develop patterns after. 



I. Neighborhood greenways / practical paths.

II. Separated spaces for different modes.


III. Network-level planning and design.


Subscribe early to the new newsletter — first publishing in August. Appreciate your time, as always.

More Portland context (mentioned in the audio):

The South Waterfront neighborhood.

On Portland bike safety (via People Powered Movement).

Portland protected bicycle lane planning and design guide (via PBOT).