During the Portland City Council Climate, Resilience, and Land Use Committee meeting on August 14, 2025, a significant discussion emerged regarding the planning and investment strategies for East Portland. Council members highlighted the need for more identified centers and corridors in the area, pointing out that the current comprehensive plan leaves large swaths of unutilized land, which could be transformed into complete neighborhoods.

One council member emphasized the importance of adding centers to these underdeveloped areas, suggesting that this could enhance community cohesion and accessibility. They referenced the comprehensive plan's infrastructure project list, which outlines significant public investments over the next 20 years, including essential services like streets, sewers, and parks. This list is crucial as it informs the five-year capital improvement plans for various city bureaus.

The discussion also touched on equity in infrastructure investment, noting that the current prioritization leans heavily towards East Portland due to its historical underinvestment. Specific projects, such as improvements on 82nd Avenue, were highlighted as examples of this focused effort. The council's deliberate decision to prioritize these investments aims to address long-standing disparities in infrastructure development across the city.

As the meeting concluded, the council members acknowledged the importance of these discussions in shaping a more equitable and resilient Portland, particularly for communities that have been overlooked in the past. The ongoing efforts to enhance East Portland's infrastructure are seen as a critical step towards fostering more complete neighborhoods and improving overall community well-being.