North Park Blocks
North Park Blocks Map
About North Park Blocks in Portland
The North Park Blocks are a series of park blocks located in Portland, Oregon. Dedicated in 1869, they are one of the city's oldest park sites, stretching from West Burnside Street to Northwest Glisan Street. The park covers an area of approximately 3.11 acres and is operated by Portland Parks & Recreation.
Historically, the North Park Blocks were part of Captain John H. Couch's land donation to the city in 1865, officially platted for municipal park use in 1869. Over the years, the park has undergone various changes and improvements. In the early 20th century, it included separate playgrounds for boys and girls, reflecting the social norms of the time. Tennis courts were added in 1920, and the park has since evolved to meet changing community needs.
The North Park Blocks feature a variety of trees, including Big Leaf Maples, Black Locusts, and American Elms. These trees provide shade and contribute to the urban canopy, offering a green oasis in the heart of the city. The park serves as a connection between downtown Portland, Old Town, and the Pearl District, providing a space for relaxation and recreation in a dense urban environment.
In recent years, the North Park Blocks have experienced a renaissance with the development of upscale condominiums and creative commercial buildings in the surrounding area. A significant addition to the park came in 2002 with the installation of "Da Tung and Xi'an Bao Bao," a full-size bronze reproduction of Shang dynasty elephant statues, donated by Chinese foundry owner Huo Baozhu.
The park has also become an important part of Portland's art scene. It is home to several sculptures, including "Memory 99" by Lee Kelly, which stands in front of the Pacific Northwest College of Art (PNCA). The college's main campus, housed in the renovated historic 511 Federal Building, adds to the cultural significance of the area.
Currently, there are plans to extend the North Park Blocks further north as part of the Broadway Corridor development project. This extension aims to provide additional open space and incorporate the Green Loop, a proposed pedestrian and bicycle path connecting various parts of the city.
