Portland, OR – A neighborhood near Providence Park has been identified as a major hotspot for fentanyl use and drug-related activity, sparking growing concern among local residents and officials. Southwest 13th Street, in particular, has become a focal point for increased police attention, but community members argue that more needs to be done to address safety issues in the area.
At a recent city council meeting, several residents spoke out about the impact of drug use in their community. They raised alarms about discarded needles, drug paraphernalia, and heightened safety concerns, especially around local schools. One of the most concerning areas is the vicinity of Lincoln High School, where residents report finding evidence of drug use near school properties.
Michelle Milla, a concerned neighbor, shared her personal experience with the council, describing how she and other residents regularly clean up discarded needles from school grounds. “I, along with many people on my street, regularly pick up discarded needles and other evidence of drug use on the school properties,” Milla said. “Parents are feeling heightened concern, especially when walking their children to school in what should be safe and welcoming areas.”
Mayor Ted Wheeler responded to the concerns, acknowledging the severity of the issue. “We share your concern that it is in close proximity to Lincoln High School and the overpasses that are the primary means for many students to get to and from school,” Wheeler said. He also emphasized the city’s commitment to increasing patrols in the area as part of ongoing efforts to curb drug activity.
The creation of a neighborhood advocacy website called “Stadiumhood” reflects the growing frustration among residents. The group has been actively pushing for stronger enforcement and more resources to tackle the issue of drug use and public safety in their neighborhood.
Despite these efforts, residents feel that current measures are insufficient to address the scale of the problem. With fentanyl use continuing to rise in Portland, and the safety of students and residents at risk, many in the community are calling for more aggressive action from both the police and local government to ensure the safety of their streets.
As concerns over the fentanyl crisis continue to mount, local leaders are under pressure to find effective solutions to restore safety and prevent further harm in the neighborhood.
