Powellhurst-Gilbert, Portland, OR

When exploring Portland, Oregon, tourists often visit the usual suspects, such as the trendy Pearl District or the quirky Mississippi Avenue. However, there are hidden gems waiting to be discovered, such as the neighborhood of Powellhurst Gilbert. Located in the southeast corner of Portland, Powellhurst Gilbert boasts a diverse population, unique landmarks, and a rich history. This neighborhood may not be on everyone's radar, but it is certainly worth exploring.

History

Powellhurst Gilbert is named after two of its major streets, Powell Boulevard and Gilbert Road. The area was annexed by the City of Portland in 1980, but it wasn't until the early 2000s that the neighborhood began to develop a distinct identity. Powellhurst Gilbert's population is diverse, with a mix of immigrants and communities of color. The neighborhood has a rich history of supporting working-class families and was at the forefront of efforts to establish a social welfare state in Oregon.

Demographics

According to the 2010 census, the population of Powellhurst Gilbert was 17,935. The neighborhood is home to a diverse racial and ethnic community, with a population that is 46% White, 24% Hispanic, 18% Asian, and 7% African American. The area has a large number of families and young people.

Notable Landmarks

Powellhurst Gilbert is not a tourist hotspot, but there are several landmarks that are worth visiting. One of the most interesting structures in the neighborhood is the Powell Butte Reservoir. This concrete water tank is a hidden gem within Powell Butte Nature Park and is a great spot for photography buffs. The reservoir not only serves as a functional water storage tank but is also an architectural marvel with a unique roof design.

Another landmark is the Gilbert Heights Elementary School, which has been renovated into an affordable housing complex called Pinyon Pine. The school was built in 1938, and the developer has preserved the historic facade while creating modern housing units for low-income families. Pinyon Pine is a good example of Portland's commitment to preserving historic architecture while also addressing the affordable housing crisis.

Finally, the Souk food cart pod is a popular destination for foodies in Powellhurst Gilbert. This pod offers a variety of cuisines, from Lebanese street food to Thai noodles, and is a great spot to grab a bite in between exploring the neighborhood.

Unique and Interesting Places to Visit

1) Luang Prabang is a well-known restaurant in Powellhurst Gilbert that serves authentic Laotian cuisine. The family-owned restaurant offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere where you can enjoy dishes such as papaya salad, sticky rice, and spicy noodles. The owner is usually present and happy to chat with customers about the history of Laotian cuisine.

2) Cherry Blossom Tattoo is a tattoo shop in Powellhurst Gilbert that offers custom designs and traditional tattoos. The shop has been around for over ten years and has a reputation for high-quality work. The owner, an experienced tattoo artist, specializes in Japanese-style tattoos, and has a deep appreciation for the art form. If you're looking for a unique piece of art to commemorate your time in Portland, Cherry Blossom Tattoo is worth checking out.

3) If you're in the mood for some outdoor adventure, head to Powell Butte Nature Park. The park offers several trails that lead to the summit of Powell Butte, where you can enjoy panoramic views of Portland. The park is an excellent spot for hiking, biking, and camping. There are several picnic areas and a playground for families with young children. The park is especially remarkable during spring when the wildflowers are in bloom, and the views of Mount Hood are stunning.

Personal Experience

I recently visited Powellhurst Gilbert with a friend who moved to Portland from New York City. We were looking for a place to grab some late-night food and came across the Souk food cart pod. We were pleasantly surprised by the variety of cuisines and settled on getting some Lebanese street food. While waiting for our food, we struck up a conversation with the cart owner, who told us about the other carts in the pod and recommended some of his favorite dishes. We ended up staying for over an hour, enjoying the food and chatting with the locals. It was a great introduction to Powellhurst Gilbert, and I plan to explore the neighborhood further on my next visit to Portland.

In conclusion, Powellhurst Gilbert is a neighborhood that deserves more attention from tourists and locals alike. The area's rich history, diverse population, and unique landmarks make it an interesting place to explore. Whether you're looking for great food, outdoor adventure, or a custom tattoo, Powellhurst Gilbert has something to offer. With its many hidden gems waiting to be discovered, this neighborhood is worth a visit.