Presentation: The Mt. Hood Freeway and the Preservation of SE Portland

[via the Foster-Powell Blog]

This looks like a very interesting presentation:

The Mt. Hood Freeway and the Preservation of Southeast Portland
Saturday, November 8
Architectural Heritage Center
701 SE Grand Avenue
10 AM – noon
General Public: $18 Members: $13

The story of the once-planned but never constructed Mount Hood Freeway has attained legendary status as a tale of grass-roots efforts by citizens to preserve their Portland neighborhoods.

Join urban planner Richard Ross and our own education manager/historian Val Ballestrem for a look back at the post-World War II era of freeway building in Portland, a time society became oriented around the automobile. How did Portland change from a bicycle and streetcar city in the early 20th century to a Freeway City by mid-century? Where did the idea come from that freeways could solve our traffic woes? And why did the freeway antagonists prevail in this case?

Learn how changing times and laws empowered freeway opponents and political leaders alike, leading to new transportation options including light rail, the revitalization of downtown and the preservation of several southeast Portland neighborhoods that stood in the swath of the planned freeway.

Pre-registration is encouraged – here online or call the AHC at 503 231-7264.

Visit the Architechutral Heritage Center’s website for a complete list of all the fascinating presentations they offer.