Key Portland issues to watch in 2025
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Illustration: Allie Carl/Axios
It's 2025, and we're already looking ahead at what's to come on a variety of issues at the local, state and federal level.
Why it matters: We've got a new form of city government, an underfunded transportation system that needs fixing and an incoming new administration in the White House — all of which could impact the lives of Oregonians in ways big and small.
Here's our short list:
🚘 Transportation: The biggest issue in this year's legislative session is expected to be a package of bills centered around transportation.
- The Oregon Department of Transportation needs to fill a $1.8 billion budget gap — money that funds everything from regular road maintenance to new infrastructure to high-profile mega-projects like a new Interstate Bridge.
🌇 Downtown recovery: Portland's economic engine continues to sputter as the city tries to recover its footing after the pandemic caused an exodus of workers from its core.
- There have been some positive signs — the number of visitors has been on the rise — but it's unclear if remote workers will ever fully come back to empty offices, despite city efforts to make downtown more inviting.
👮 Changes in federal law: A second Trump administration could bring big changes to Oregon.
- Will Trump's pledge to carry out mass deportations come to fruition? If so, how will it impact Oregon's residents and its economy?
- Will the president-elect stay true to his promise to leave reproductive rights to the states? Some Oregonians are already planning for new restrictions.
🏘️ Housing: Portland's population continues to shrink, in part, as people seek more affordable housing options. Those who've left haven't gone far.
- The exodus has increased housing demands in neighboring suburbs and put a crunch on infrastructure.
- The state as a whole remains behind on its housing goals, and lack of new construction could drive home prices up and prompt more people to leave.
🏛️Local government: Power has shifted in City Hall — 12 new city council members are in charge of crafting policy, a city administrator will oversee all bureaus, and the mayor needs to build relationships with all of them if he wants to see his goals met.
- We'll be watching for whether coalitions between commissioners are formed, infighting ensues and what issues get priority.
- This is a brand new system, so there's bound to be growing pains.