Building icons: how communities shape monumental projects
Looking toward 2025 and beyond, Oregon’s rapidly growing population and economy demand thoughtful urban planning. Progress is inevitable but creating spaces that are celebrated and functional requires more than time and effort — it demands trust, collaboration and a deep understanding of the communities these projects serve. While the grandeur of monumental projects is often recognized only in hindsight, their journey to realization is a testament to the power of shared vision. From iconic bridges and skyscrapers to vibrant community spaces, the secret to enduring success lies in building support from the ground up through strategic communication and robust community engagement.
The rearview mirror effect
Portland’s most transformative projects were not always universally welcomed in their infancy. Pioneer Courthouse Square, now the city’s “living room,” faced skepticism when it was proposed to replace a parking lot. Yet through a transparent and inclusive engagement process, the project gained support and became a national model for public works competitions and project delivery.
Similarly, the Pearl District’s redevelopment ignited debates over affordability and gentrification. Once a gritty industrial zone, it is now a thriving mixed-use neighborhood celebrated for blending historic charm with modern urban living, including affordable housing options.
These examples underscore that resistance is common in the early stages of visionary projects. However, they also demonstrate that community engagement in crafting a shared vision can overcome initial skepticism and create projects that stand the test of time.
Listening to the community
Successful projects start by understanding the wants, needs and history of the communities they aim to serve. Reed’s Crossing in South Hillsboro exemplifies this principle. Addressing a housing shortage and the need for balanced urban development, this master-planned mixed-use community combines practicality with livability featuring green spaces, parks and a vibrant town center featuring restaurants, a grocery store and personal service spaces. Beyond meeting housing demand, the project created a place people want to call home.
In Portland, infrastructure projects like Tilikum Crossing and revitalization efforts in Old Town Chinatown illustrate the importance of prioritizing community input. Inclusive planning that engages cultural, historical and equity-priority groups ensures that projects reflect the community’s identity and aspirations.
Beyond the blueprint
Good design begins long before the first draft. By involving diverse voices — community advocates, historians and champions of diversity, equity and inclusion — projects gain support from the outset. Transparent communication and consistent messaging across multiple platforms, from advisory committees to social media, foster trust and collaboration.
For example, the lighting events at Tilikum Crossing exemplify how incorporating community input and celebrating milestones can create pride and a sense of connection. These efforts go beyond the technical aspects of design, emphasizing the community’s role in shaping the project’s legacy.
Champions for change
Behind every successful project are champions who advocate for its value and amplify its message. Empowering these community leaders through advisory roles or storytelling opportunities helps create a groundswell of support. They become the voices that bridge the gap between technical planning and public perception, ensuring that the project resonates with the broader community.
Addressing concerns
No project is without its critics. Skeptics and apathetic community members are inevitable, but their concerns present opportunities for growth. Clear and strategic communication and respectful engagement can turn hesitation into collaboration, ensuring balanced input as projects move forward.
Involvement beyond day one
Community engagement doesn’t end once the ground-breaking ceremony begins. Ongoing involvement through public celebrations, art installations and ribbon-cutting events keeps the community connected to the project’s progress and success. These moments reaffirm the community’s role as stakeholders and reinforce the idea that the project belongs to them. Media coverage preceding and following such celebrations empowers a sense of community ownership.
A lasting legacy
When a project is completed, it’s about not only the physical space but also what it represents to the community. Portland’s landmarks, from Pioneer Courthouse Square to Tilikum Crossing, remind us that great projects endure when built with trust, collaboration and shared aspirations.
Looking back through history, this theme is evident in globally iconic projects. The Brooklyn Bridge faced fierce opposition from merchants and shipbuilders who feared it would disrupt commerce, yet today it symbolizes ingenuity and resilience. The Eiffel Tower was scorned as a “monstrosity” by artists and intellectuals during its construction, but it has since become Paris’ most beloved landmark. Closer to home, the Portland Building and its iconic Portlandia statue initially sparked polarized opinions but are now recognized as defining features of the cityscape.
These examples remind us that resistance often accompanies innovation. However, with thoughtful engagement, projects can transform from controversial ideas into beloved icons.
An appropriate balance
As Oregon moves forward, balancing bold visions with inclusive collaboration will be essential to shaping spaces that reflect the region’s growth and values. Progress demands that we work together, listening to diverse voices and building trust from the start.
Every landmark begins as an idea. But it’s the community — its dreams, its struggles, its input — that transforms that idea into an enduring icon. By embracing this collaborative spirit, Oregon can continue to create spaces that are not only functional and celebrated but also a testament to the power of shared vision and collective effort.
Written by Kelliann with Robert Hastings, Fellow, AIA, a strategic advisor for Amico’s public infrastructure, transportation and built environment practice area, and director of Oregon, By Design. Originally published in the December 5, 2024 issue of DJC Oregon.
