River Renaissance was created in 2004 to engage the public, connect community partners, coordinate the city’s river-related work, and create innovative urban solutions. Central to this initiative approach is the belief that urban development, healthy natural systems, and a sustainable economy are complementary goals.

The River Renaissance Initiative celebrates the Willamette River by promoting a comprehensive approach to river issues, providing Portlander's with river experiences, enhancing public awareness of critical issues, and highlighting progress and achievements. A calendar of river events connects people of all ages with hands-on experiences and educational opportunities sponsored by city bureaus and community partners.

The initiative is led by a collaborative team of city bureaus: Planning, Environmental Services, Parks & Recreation, Sustainable Development, Transportation, Development Services, Water, and the Portland Development Commission.

A growing network of community partners includes businesses, neighborhoods, property owners, river users, community organizations, civic groups, schools & universities, and government agencies.

River Renaissance is arguably the most ambitious river revitalization effort

in recent US history...But if any city is likely to succeed with such a task, it is Portland,

a city known for its long history of planning and environmental stewardship.

The Willamette was a model for restoration in the 1970s, an it can be again.

Ecological Riverfront Design: Restoring Rivers, Connecting Communities

A report by the American Planning Association and American Rivers, May 2004

A Brief History of River Renaissance

River Renaissance was launched in the fall of 2000, with a series of interactive workshops that resulted in a community vision for a revitalized Willamette River. The Portland City Council enthusiastically endorsed the River Renaissance Vision in March 2001.

Next, a team of eight city bureaus developed a collective assessment of the river and its economic, environmental and urban systems. The Willamette River Conditions Report summarizes the existing conditions, trends and opportunities for each of the River Renaissance Vision themes.

The River Renaissance Strategy advances progress to achieve the Vision by establishing policy guidance, progress measures, and a set of actions for the city’s river-related activities. A collaborative effort of eight city bureaus and community partners produced the Strategy that was unanimously adopted by the City Council in December 2004.