A Little History

Woodstock is one of the city’s older neighborhoods, first platted in 1889. The northern portion of the neighborhood contains the majority of the neighborhood’s older homes, some built as early as the 1880s. Post World War II housing construction is concentrated in the southern panhandle and the northeast corner of the neighborhood. More recent urban infill housing is scattered throughout the area although more concentrated in the eastern portion of the area.

Business and civic activity is concentrated in Woodstock’s Village Center located on SE Woodstock Blvd. between SE 39th and SE 52nd Avenues. Churches, a library, and a community center are interspersed with large and small commercial establishments offering a wide range of consumer goods and services.

One Success Story

Back during the 2004-2005 budget season, the Woodstock Community Center (WCC) was slated for closure due to lack of funds to keep it open. With neighborhood support, a group of community members sponsored by the Woodstock Neighborhood Association stepped up to co-manage WCC.

Following an initial one-year trial, the Portland City Council unanimously approved a Shared Use Agreement between Portland Parks & Recreation and the Friends of the Woodstock Community Center supported by the Woodstock Neighborhood Association.

According to the Partnership Agreement, Portland Parks & Recreation (PPR) continues to provide programming at the building, such as recreation/enrichment classes, private rentals and other events. Most routine operational expenses are now being covered by the Woodstock Neighborhood Association/Friends of Woodstock Community Center (FWCC), for which they raise money through private fundraising events and or offset by providing in-kind volunteer labor (grounds upkeep, twice weekly custodial and other minor maintenance obligations) with the oversight of PPR staff.

As they continue to succeed, this Partnership Agreement can be used as a guiding light to other community centers faced with budget cuts that could mean closure. By working together, they can keep this Center open to the neighborhood for a long time to come.

Recently, the Friends of the Woodstock Community Center signed a 5-year agreement with Portland Parks & Recreation and the valuable community asset continues to flourish. Way to go Woodstock!

Historic Trees

If you find yourself visiting the Woodstock Neighborhood, stop by 5450 SE 40th and admire the beautiful Tulip tree (Liriodendron tulipifera).

Visit the Woodstock website!