Portland, OR — The Portland City Council unanimously approved a resolution on Wednesday to continue addressing safety issues and improve livability at Dawson Park, a community green space in the King neighborhood that has been plagued by rising crime.
City officials, including members of Mayor Ted Wheeler’s staff, highlighted steps already taken to enhance safety, including the installation of additional lighting, increased site walks, additional cleanup efforts, and the installation of bollards to limit traffic in the park’s parking lot. Despite these measures, residents continue to raise alarm over ongoing issues such as shootings, drug use, and other forms of criminal activity that have marred the area’s safety.
Residents testified before the Council, sharing their frustrations about the dangers they face on a daily basis. One neighbor, visibly shaken, described how unsafe it has become to walk around the park, citing several recent shootings. “You can’t walk down the street or walk around the park without feeling unsafe. There have been numerous shootings in the area, in and around the park,” the neighbor said.
One of the most tragic incidents occurred on July 19, when a drive-by shooting left two people injured just outside the park, during a time when families were picking up children from a nearby preschool. During the investigation, Portland police found 70 shell casings at the scene. One of the victims later succumbed to his injuries two months later, prompting outrage and concern from neighbors who said the city had not taken enough steps to secure the area.
Valerie Burns, a local resident whose 3-year-old was with her at the scene, spoke at the meeting, expressing frustration that the city had not implemented further measures to protect the park and the surrounding area. “As of today, December 11th, the city has not protected our school any further than it had on July 19th,” Burns said. “It was very traumatizing for myself and my 3-year-old. I am very sorry for the person that lost their life that day.”
According to data from the Portland Police Bureau’s open data portal, there have been more than 30 incidents of shots fired within a half-mile radius of Dawson Park since the beginning of 2024. The most recent was reported on Tuesday night, but police found no evidence of gunfire or suspects at the scene.
In light of these troubling statistics, neighbors are urging the city to take additional measures, including more aggressive enforcement of drug laws and increased foot patrols in the area. Some have also called for long-term solutions, including the redevelopment of the land surrounding the park to support economic development, particularly for Black Portlanders, a community that is disproportionately affected by crime.
Commissioner Rene Gonzalez echoed the concerns expressed by the community, emphasizing the need for compassion for families and children in the area. “The story of Dawson Park is a reminder we need to talk about compassion for children, for parents, for those who protect and nurture and care for them,” Gonzalez said during the meeting.
Mayor Ted Wheeler, who was present at the meeting, acknowledged the ongoing safety concerns and expressed hope that the new form of government set to take effect in January would help address these challenges more effectively. The new system, which includes a dedicated public safety office, is expected to streamline response efforts and improve coordination between city agencies.
While the Council’s resolution marks a continued commitment to tackling crime in the area, residents are eager for more immediate action. As violence persists, the neighborhood remains in a state of heightened concern, with community members hoping that the city’s promises translate into tangible improvements in safety and quality of life.
The City Council’s resolution passed without opposition, but it remains to be seen whether the increased focus on Dawson Park will lead to the kind of changes the community is calling for.
