VMC
The Riverfront site is huge and a very accessible location. It should be zoned and designed to not block Memorial Coliseum from bridges and the west side of the river.
The Plaza to the east of VMC is pretty dreadful and an opportunity for something inspiring.
RIVERFRONT SITES
PARKING GARAGES
PPS BLANCHARD SITE
PARKING
LOTS
CONVENTION CENTER
DOWNTOWN PORTLAND
PEARL DISTRICT
LIGHTRAIL
STREETCAR
I-5
FUTURE HIGH SPEED RAIL?
LIGHTRAIL
I-84
UNDER UTILIZED SITES
MODA CENTER
PROVIDENCE PARK
LIGHTRAIL
UNDER UTILIZED SITES
UNDER UTILIZED SITES
LLOYD DISTRICT
UNION RAIL STATION
CENTRAL EASTSIDE
Vicinity Opportunities
Veterans Memorial Coliseum is in the middle of the largest, close-in, underutilized district in Portland. The Rose Quarter is an opportunity for a new vibrant district for Portland, coupled with the Convention Center area and the PPS Blanchard site area. Very close to downtown, the best connected district, thanks to lightrail and streetcar lines.
Expansion of the Convention Center should be considered in parts of the Rose Quarter, forming a multi-building convention facility like Milan or Koln, Germany; connected by streetcar or tram. The convention center hotel would also be an asset for the Rose Quarter.
Housing and retail activates urban districts, and should be considered for this area.
A restored Veterans Memorial Coliseum should be used as a centerpiece and catalyzer for the district. All development should defer to the Coliseum and allow it to be shown in its best light.