PORTLAND, Oregon — Portland City Council passed a resolution on Wednesday to reaffirm their support for safety improvements in Dawson Park. The park in North Portland has had ongoing problems with gun violence, drug dealing and other safety concerns, according to residents that live nearby.
Many of those residents voiced their concerns during Wednesday’s council meeting.
“Dawson Park is a fixture of this community, but sadly one that myself and many of my neighbors are not able to enjoy because of the murders, gunshots, open drug use and dealing and prostitution that occur in the park,” said Julie Allen, who lives nearby.
Other neighbors said they don’t feel comfortable visiting the park, which has a playground, or even walking their pets in the neighborhood.
Gun violence has been an ongoing concern in the park, with a parent recalling an incident from 2021: "We hid behind a plastic piece of play equipment while seeing two men with guns looking at each other, both looking afraid and deciding whether to continue firing at each other."
In July, over 80 gunshots were fired in a matter of minutes during a shootout. Two people were hit with gunfire. One person later died from their injuries.
Meanwhile, the city of Portland says it has made safety at the park a priority.
“City teams have been working diligently to reduce gun violence, to address livability issues and support our local community in the Dawson Park area,” said Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler.
The city has recently installed extra lighting fixtures and power washed sidewalks around the park. The goal is to eventually improve lighting in the gazebo and add picnic tables. Police have also increased walking patrols.
Neighbors acknowledge things seem to be moving in the right direction.
“In the last year, we have noticed hearing less gunshots, which is one positive sign of progress,” Allen told council.
The council unanimously passed the resolution to formally express that work to improve the park will continue as the city government transitions to a new structure in 2025.