Portland may soon launch a Storefront Support Program to revitalize its struggling small business corridors, under a resolution introduced by Councilor Dan Ryan. The measure directs the City Administrator to develop a comprehensive plan aimed at improving conditions for storefronts across the city.
The resolution acknowledges the critical role storefront businesses play in shaping Portland’s neighborhoods and economy, while confronting a host of growing challenges—including rising operational costs, persistent crime, vandalism, and increasing business closures.
The proposed program would implement citywide systems to track and address storefront vacancies; improve coordination between city bureaus responding to crime, nuisance, and vandalism affecting businesses; and strengthen collaboration among Prosper Portland, city agencies, and community stakeholders. It would also identify staffing, funding, and data needs to support the long-term success of the initiative and conduct exit interviews to better understand the causes of business closures.
“Local storefronts are more than businesses—they are anchors of community identity and vitality,” said Councilor Ryan. “When they suffer, our neighborhoods, our tourism, and our city’s economy suffers. This resolution is about giving them the tools and support they need to thrive again.”
Ryan stressed that storefront health is crucial to Portland’s broader economic recovery. “We’ve heard the concerns from small business owners loud and clear. They need a City that shows up, coordinates and responds,” he said. “Business license revenue declines are directly related to our budget shortfalls. This is red alert time for our city’s services to steward our storefronts.”
If adopted, the City Administrator must submit a full plan—including funding options—for Council consideration by Jan. 31, 2026, in time for the fiscal year 2026–27 budget process.
