Opinion: Pioneer Courthouse Square is leading downtown’s comeback
Updated Dec 23, 2020;
Facebook Share
Stewart is president of the Pioneer Courthouse Square board of trustees.
Thirty-six years ago, after years of planning and debate, Pioneer Courthouse Square was born. Our mission then, as it is today, was to actively program and enrich the experience of being downtown and provide a safe, inspiring gathering place for Portlanders and visitors from all walks of life. In a normal year, more than 11 million people visit Pioneer Courthouse Square.
This year has been anything but normal, challenging Portland, The Square and downtown like never before. We’ve seen COVID-19, business closures and sustained demonstrations. The board overseeing Pioneer Courthouse Square has embraced the challenge of leading downtown from pandemic and plywood toward community and comfort. The Square is a source for hope and connection for all the varied cultural groups that bring festivals, celebratio