W&R Business Hub

Portland, OR
2027

The Williams and Russell Business Hub will create a place of opportunity for Portland’s Black community through business creation, workforce development, and access to business incubator space, support services, and affordable commercial space.

Overview

Idea

Develop a culturally specific business hub for Portland’s Black community and provide affordable office and retail spaces for nonprofit support organizations and business enterprises.

Implementation

This project will feature a Cross Laminated Timber (CLT) structure, target LEED Gold certification and strive to reach 30% target business participation in the design and construction of the project.

Results

This business hub will support small businesses, community reparations, and aid in wealth creation. This building centers the Black community in all stages of development, from design to construction to leasing.

Business Hub with Plaza/Garden in Distance

The intersection of North Williams Avenue and North Russell Street served as the downtown for the City of Albina which was merged into the City of Portland, Oregon in 1891. Photo taken in 1910 in the historic Albina. (Image courtesy of City of Portland (OR) Archives

Williams & Russell Project

The onion-shaped cupola was removed from the Hill Block building in 1971 during its demolition by Emmanuel Hospital as a part of urban renewal. (Image courtesy of City of Portland (OR) Archives, AP/69670)