Commissioner Dan Ryan Directs Improvements at University Park

Portland’s Vibrant Communities Commissioner Dan Ryan, who oversees Portland Parks & Recreation, has directed that University Park receive improvements funded by System Development Charges (SDCs). Portland Parks & Recreation staff anticipate that after community input, and project scoping and planning are finalized, improvement projects may be completed sometime in 2026.

“There is a long list of needs across the city,” notes Commissioner Ryan. “And I believe that helping to revitalize this crucial place to play in the Portsmouth area will be a tremendous asset for neighbors to improve their physical and mental health. The adjacent Charles Jordan Community Center will complement new amenities at University Park for an improved, holistic recreational experience.”

The specifics of the University Park improvements and the funding amount will be informed by further community engagement.Park SDCs are one-time fees assessed on new development, not general fund tax dollars. SDCs help ensure that, as the city grows in population, its quality of life keeps pace with its infrastructure needs. Current state law restricts that SDC resources can only be used for improvements that will expand the capacity of the parks and recreation system and cannot be used to fix or maintain current assets.

University Park is a Portsmouth neighborhood gathering space of nearly 12 acres, adjacent to Charles Jordan Community Center. It has popular but aging sports fields for soccer and softball, an accessible play area, a picnic table, public art. and park paths. An accessible restroom is available inside the community center.

Portland Parks & Recreation will continue to update the community about University Park community engagement, plans and timelines as more information becomes available.