Working to make Downtown thrive
At Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, we believe in the power of collaboration. By partnering with local businesses, residents, and community groups, we deliver enhanced services and programs that contribute to our city’s thriving spirit.
Downtown Portland Clean & Safe is hosting our second annual Ratepayer Board meeting on Tuesday, September 15 from 3 - 4:30 p.m.!
Meet the new Clean & Safe Board of Directors for 2026-2027, learn about important program and service updates, ask questions, and make connections. All ratepayers who contribute to the Clean & Safe budget via the City of Portland’s Enhanced Service District program are invited to attend.
Link to register is pinned in our highlights. We look forward to seeing you soon!
Calling small business owners, creatives, and entrepreneurs! The 2026 PDX Pop-Up Shop Program is accepting applications until September 18, 2026.
We`re looking for go-getters ready to try brick and mortar retail in the heart of Downtown Portland. If selected, you`ll have six weeks to operate your own storefront during the busy holiday shopping season!
Apply today at DowntownPortland.org
Ride your bike to this year`s Portland Staycation! (Or scooter, take public transit, or use your own two feet!).
Pros: reduce your carbon footprint, work up a sweat, experience the thrill of bicycling, and avoid a major closure on I-5 South!
Portland`s second-annual Summer Staycation returns September 11–13! This year`s Staycation just so happens to coincide with a major closure of all southbound lanes of Interstate 5 in Portland’s Rose Quarter, which also begins September 11.
Don`t let a highway closure stop you from enjoying your Downtown! If you`re able, we encourage you to ride your bike or take public transit to the Staycation. We can`t wait to see you there!
Learn more at PortlandStaycation.com
Photo credit: Henry Crommett
Voice. Body. Makeup. Costume. Gesture. How does a performer become someone else entirely?
The final Shakespeare, Unbuttoned event explores the physical craft of drag and theatrical transformation — through live demonstration, performance, and conversation with Portland artists.
Friday, August 28. Darcelle XV Plaza. 6–7:30 PM.
FREE and open to the public.
Kristen Martin, owners of Bring Treats for Dogs and Bring! Barkery and Pet Boutique, shares why business owners should apply for the PDX Pop-Up Shop Program. @bring_treats_for_dogs participated in the program in 2023 and 2025. Bring! Barkery and Pet Boutique is located at 875 SW Yamhill Street in Downtown Portland.
Pop-Up Shop applications close September 18! Apply at DowntownPortland.org
Applications opened on Monday for Prosper Portland`s Vacant Storefront Grant Program! The program offers $800,000 in marching funds to help local restaurants, grocery stories, and retailers move into vacant street-level locations across Portland.
Funds reimburse up to 75% of eligible project costs and are awarded on a rolling, first-come-first-served basis until they are gone. Don`t miss out, apply today!
Learn more and apply at ProsperPortland.us
National Dog Day is just a week away! Grab your pup, your pup`s most dazzling costume, and join us for a doggy fashion show you`ll never forget!
Darcelle Pups on the Plaza Fashion Show will take place from 5:30 - 7:30 PM on Wednesday, August 26. The show will feature a doggy runway, costumes, local food and drink vendors, and an award ceremony! 10% of proceeds from vendor sales will support One Tail At A Time PDX.
Thanks to our partners! @fashionfiverunway @otatpdx @flockpdx @premier_fire_protection @bring_treats_for_dogs @viencouture @fernandfurpetsupply
Downtown Portland Clean & Safe, in partnership with the Portland Metro Chamber, is excited to announce an open call for participants for the 2026 PDX Pop-Up Shop Program! Applications close September 18, 2026.
We`re looking for creative, entrepreneurial businesses ready to try brick and mortar retail in the heart of Downtown Portland. Selected businesses will have six weeks to operate their own Downtown storefront during the busy holiday shopping season.
Check our website for more details on how the program operates and the link to apply!
keeping downtown vibrant
We activate public spaces through placemaking initiatives, including managing Director Park with its 300+ annual events, operating a year-round lighting program across 1,400 trees, and producing signature community events that celebrate art, culture, and local businesses while creating welcoming gathering spaces downtown.
keeping downtown clean
We partner with Central City Concern’s Clean Start Program to provide cleaning services seven days a week, including sidewalk sweeping, graffiti removal, litter pickup, and pressure washing.
keeping downtown safe
We provide security services across the 273-block district, resolving safety concerns and connecting visitors and residents with resources.
keeping downtown engaged
We support downtown businesses through marketing initiatives, community engagement programs, and collaborative campaigns that promote local retailers, activate storefronts, and connect visitors with the district’s vibrant offerings.
keeping downtown accountable
We conduct research and publish reports on the district’s economic vitality, including vibrancy metrics, business surveys, and pedestrian traffic data, to inform current and prospective businesses about the district.
