Central Eastside Together Announces New Programs and Vision for 2025
Central Eastside Together (CET), one of Portland’s three enhanced service districts, has announced its 2024-2025 programs and services. Since its inception in 2019, CET has committed to promoting safety, enhancing pedestrian experiences, supporting economic viability, and celebrating the district’s unique identity. CET serves over 1,300 businesses and 22,000 employees, thriving within a sprawling 681-acre industrial and multi-use area.
“Throughout the last six months, our staff and Board have conducted extensive outreach to determine the most impactful programs for our community,” said CET Executive Director Carolyne Holcomb. “Through small group discussions and surveys, we found a near-unanimous desire for more district enhancement activities that drive traffic to the Central Eastside. This year marks our first opportunity to learn from the initial years of operation and chart a new path forward.”
In a significant shift, CET will end its private security contract on June 30, 2024, and immediately debut a Community Ambassadors program through Rise2Care (R2C). R2C, a Northwest Enforcement (NEI) subsidiary, is a revolutionary service model focused on providing care and safety. With over two decades of experience, the founders of NEI responded to field feedback by launching Rise2Care. This one-of-a-kind outreach program moves away from an ‘enforcement' affiliation and leads with a more trauma-informed approach. “At the very core of our work is a deep desire and purpose to make an impact for a lifetime,” said Sonja Kuhn, Executive Director of Operations for R2C. “We accomplish this by protecting the interests and needs of business owners, residents, guests, and houseless neighbors alike.”
"We are taking a proactive approach to community building and placemaking. The Community Ambassador program provides the opportunity for us to promote our vibrant and diverse district, ensuring a responsive and adaptable program that meets the evolving needs of our community," said Director of Programs Brianna Woods, adding that Rise2Care has successfully serviced the District from 2018-2023. “We are ready for them to get started on July 1, implementing their training in cultural diversity, trust-building, and trauma-informed care to promptly address and de-escalate tension in public spaces while supporting business leaders' access to and use of city resources for livability issues.”
Effective July 1, 2024, through June 30, 2025, CET’s new programs include:
Community Ambassador Program:
Community Ambassadors will focus on visitor hospitality, wayfinding, and business resources, support education on utilizing city and county services, de-escalation, and trauma-informed engagement with those experiencing mental health and drug-related crises. Ambassadors will be available seven days a week, 14 hours per day. Get service by emailing ambassador@ceic.cc or calling 503-236-6830 ext. 702.
Better Together Grant Program: This new initiative will award up to $50,000 to District businesses collaborating to activate public spaces, increase foot traffic, and promote the district's unique identity. The grant aims to enhance community engagement and economic development.
Improved Cleaning Services: CET will continue its partnership with Central City Concern for cleaning services, including large furniture, litter and debris removal, biohazard cleanup, drug paraphernalia disposal, and assistance to outdoor residents. The new strategy includes replacing barrel pushers with vehicle-based cleaners for greater efficiency and impact. The Clean Team will operate five days a week, 8.5 hours daily, and can be reached at clean@ceic.cc or 503-236-6830.
Reinvestment in District Enhancement Initiatives:
New Mural Commissions: A series of welcome murals have been created to greet visitors and residents, supporting economic development through public art.
Partnerships with SOLVE: In collaboration with Subaru of Portland, CET has launched the "Summer of SOLVE" to activate community engagement in preparation for major events.
District Banners: Over 150 pole banners will be replaced with an updated design and branding.
Summer Events Guide: The inaugural summer events guide will feature major events and activations through September 30. View the online version here.
Embodying the essence of community-driven initiatives, CET champions local control and decision-making, serving as a cornerstone for fostering community development and driving economic prosperity.
"The Board and I are excited to shift our focus toward supporting a prosperous community through innovative programs. This intentional change allows us to optimize our investment in areas where we can have the most significant impact," said Mike Larkin, CET Board Chair. "The staff will continuously review the program's impact and make real-time adjustments throughout the year."
Upcoming Events:
CEIC x Depave Block Party Clean-Up | Thursday, July 25, 2024, 9:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Join us for the CEIC partnership with SOLVE, sponsored by Subaru of Portland, for a litter clean-up ahead of Depave’s 3rd annual summer block party! We invite volunteers to spend a few hours helping to create a cleaner community and prepare for this exciting event. This family-friendly event is open to volunteers of all ages, encouraging a sense of shared responsibility and environmental consciousness among community members, young and old. Together, we can make a difference.
Avenue of Murals Celebration Ride + Tour | Friday, August 2, 5-8 pm
Grab your bike and head to the Central Eastside to join us for a one-night-only gathering to celebrate our vibrant public art murals! We’ll weave through the District, exploring our world-class street art, including 14 new public works on the Avenue of Murals! We’ll end the night at Central Eastside’s newest community space, the Bear Blocks, at the Southend of the Blumenauer Bridge.
Meet-up location: Factor Building | 226 SE Madison St
Time: Ride begins promptly at 5 pm (approximately 2 hours, ride + tour)
After Party: Bear Blocks at 7 pm
Don’t miss this chance to ride, discover, and party with us! Join the Celebration Ride, presented by Central Eastside Together and Central Eastside Industrial Council in partnership with Friends of the Green Loop and Portland Street Art Alliance. See you there!