SPEAK OUT TO SAVE EXISTING HOUSING: PSU Moves to Demolish Historic Park Blocks Residence Halls! How Might These be Used for Housing Now?

Portland State University has just filed a 120-day demolition permit for two historic 1930s residence halls on the Portland Park Blocks, a designated historic site to which these buildings are significant contributors. This reckless move threatens PSU’s architectural heritage and the integrity of one of Portland’s most cherished public spaces.

At a time when PSU is facing serious financial struggles, why demolish irreplaceable historic resources to build new housing they can’t afford for a declining student population—especially when they have available, vacant land? In a housing crisis, we can't afford to be removing multi-family housing. This decision is shortsighted and unnecessary, and has huge carbon and climate impacts. 

Of note, these buildings are eligible for national registry listing because of their historic, cultural, and architectural importance. Montgomery Court was designed by Portland's most famous architect, A.E. Doyle and has a significant importance in women's history. PSU has let the buildings decline through willful disinvestment, however, these buildings are too important to the downtown and our city's identity to lose. There will be no demolition review hearing or any way for the public to have a voice unless you speak out now.

Sign the petition now to urge PSU to withdraw the demolition permit and send a letter using our template encouraging them to retrofit the buildings instead and retain existing housing. PSU has existing vacant land already they can use for new housing without demolishing our heritage. 

🔹 Take Action Now! 🔹

✉️ Write to PSU leadership (the Dean and Capital Improvements Office) and demand preservation alternatives. Use our letter template. 

🏛 Urge city officials (Landmarks Commission, Bureau of Planning & Sustainability, City Council, and the Mayor) to intervene.

🎓 Encourage PSU students, faculty, and staff to advocate for a smarter path forward.

📢 Spread the word! Share this alert to stop this irreversible loss.

We must act before it’s too late—save PSU’s historic Montgomery Court and Blackstone Building!

Articles:

https://psuvanguard.com/montgomery-and-blackstone-halls-to-be-demolished/

https://www.pdx.edu/news/psu-announces-plans-modern-accessible-student-housing-portlands-park-blocks

https://visitahc.org/blog/any-chance-of-saving-them