On Thursday, the Portland City Council unanimously approved an ordinance to rename a downtown street that runs through the Portland State University (PSU) campus. The stretch of SW Jackson Street between 5th and Park Avenues will become SW Rose Hill Street.
Why the change matters to the community
SW Jackson Street bears the name of President Andrew Jackson, a figure whose legacy includes harsh policies toward Native peoples. PSU’s Native American Student and Community Center, located on the street, has long advocated for a name that reflects the contributions of the Indigenous community.
Gary Westley, assistant director of the center, explained the significance of the new name: “Rose Hill is one of the original families to establish this building here. They spearheaded creating the Native American Community Center. Without their hard work and dedication, this building wouldn’t exist. This is a pillar of the Native communities in the metro area.”
Process and timeline
The ordinance’s passage sets the formal process in motion to change street signs, maps, and official records. City staff will coordinate with PSU, the Department of Transportation, and local businesses to implement the rename. The council did not specify an exact date for when the new name will appear on the street, noting that the timeline will depend on logistical steps and funding.
Local reaction
Students, faculty, and community members have expressed support for the rename, viewing it as a step toward acknowledging the history and contributions of Indigenous peoples in Portland. The change aligns with broader efforts by the university and city to promote inclusivity and recognize the cultural heritage of the region.
While the rename does not alter any traffic patterns or zoning, it does signal a symbolic shift that many hope will encourage further dialogue about the city’s history and the role of Native communities in shaping it.
What’s next for the street
After the ordinance is filed, the city’s Office of Planning and Sustainability will issue a detailed implementation plan. Residents and businesses along the corridor will receive notifications about address updates and any required changes to mailing information. The city will also work with mapping services to ensure the new name appears accurately in navigation apps and official directories.
Portland officials emphasized that the rename is part of a larger commitment to honor the city’s diverse heritage while maintaining the practical functions of municipal governance.
Original reporting: KPTV FOX 12 Portland (news) — read the source article.
