This urban design assessment sets the stage for more substantive discussions on how urban form, quality, and identity can and should develop. It provides Portland with a set of qualitative and quantitative references that inform necessary community deliberations for the Central Portland Plan component of a new citywide Portland Plan. The executive summary of this work is also reflected in the urban design section of the Central Portland Plan assessment.  This study is also designed to help enhance general and every day discourse on urban design concerns in the Central City.

This Urban Design Assessment is only one component of a more comprehensive Bureau of Planning led effort known as the "Portland Plan".  Background assessments like this help inform and formulate the new Central Portland Plan element of this larger citywide effort currently underway.