Image Courtesy: https://www.oldportsquare.com/
Old Port Sq.
Kate and Alison attended the public unveiling of the Old Port Sq. proposal for 45 Union Street. Developer East Brown Cow plans to reimagine and rebrand Canal Plaza with updated landscaping, renovations to existing buildings, and the introduction of a retail pavilion and tower. At 380' tall, the residential and hotel tower would be the tallest building in the state. World-renowned architect Moshe Safdie, designer of the project, spoke at the event and described the new structure as a beacon, like a lighthouse, and hopes it will become part of Portland's identity. GPL will be taking a close look at this project and how it communicates with the abutting historic districts. Because most of the site is outside of the historic districts (and ReCode removed the "100' rule" where the Historic Preservation Board previously had purview over projects within 100' of a local historic district) there will be no formal review of historic preservation impacts by the city. Design review will occur through the Planning Board review process and we will be actively involved. For more background, view the documentary video made by the developer.
Arts District Stakeholders Group
Portland's Arts District, stretching along Congress Street from City Hall to Longfellow Square, is home to cultural institutions, performing arts venues, public buildings and spaces, businesses, restaurants, shops, offices, residences, and hotels. Kate and Alison joined a broad group, convened by Mechanics’ Hall and Downtown Portland, representing Arts District property owners, tenants, residents, advocates and the city to discuss a variety of concerns including vacancies and public safety, opportunities for revitalization, and possible next steps. Several building owners are considering adding security gates to recessed entrance vestibules, which need to be approved by the Historic Preservation office for properties within the Congress Street Historic District. The city must balance safety concerns with the visual impacts and overall perception of a streetscape transformed by security gates. The group shared appreciation for the importance of ensuring the district remains a vibrant, mixed-use neighborhood with life on the street. We were heartened that these issues are being discussed in earnest and urge the city to prioritize creative solutions to keep this area a vital destination. Solutions will require leadership as well as collaboration, creative thinking, and both nimble short-term interventions and a robust Arts District plan to support arts and culture, businesses, and public welfare in this area. As part of these efforts, we would also like to advance conversations about citywide wayfinding, signage, and district identification that could help increase awareness of historic districts, provide education, and create a stronger sense of place.
2025 Preservation Awards Nominations
Know of a great preservation project or initiative?Nominate today for a 2025 Preservation Award! We can accept nominations from anyone- developers, owners, neighbors, or enthusiasts. There is no fee to nominate and we consider a wide variety of projects, programs, and people. The deadline to nominate is May 30th. Reach out to Alison Frazee with questions. We look forward to honoring our 2023 and 2025 Preservation Award winners at a fall celebration- details coming soon!
Reimagining Franklin Street- BE HEARD
The City of Portland is asking for public feedback in the Reimagining Franklin Street effort. Now is the time to share your thoughts and experiences to help shape the approach to new and restored transportation routes, pedestrian pathways, parks and open spaces, housing and retail, and every other aspect that makes our neighborhoods thrive. Take the survey! You might consider adding comments supporting expansion of historic Lincoln Park, creating historical information signage about urban renewal and the former neighborhood that was razed, preserving any heritage trees, etc.
Support a Historic Small Restaurant
The National Trust for Historic Preservation and American Express are are once again supporting 50 small or independently owned restaurants across the country through the Backing Historic Small Restaurants grant program. Each restaurant—all places that contribute to their neighborhood 's unique history and identity—will receive $50,000 in funding to help them improve their businesses and positively impact their communities. Nominate a restaurant that you love in greater Portland by filing out the online form today! The deadline is May 30th- grant details here.
