PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Eastport Plaza, a major retail hub in East Portland, has been awarded a $350,000 Metro grant aimed at supporting long-term development, increased community engagement and a stronger local economy.
A Key Shopping Destination in East Portland
Located on Southeast 82nd Avenue just south of SE Powell Boulevard, Eastport Plaza spans 40 acres and serves as one of the area’s most prominent commercial centers. The site is home to well-known tenants such as Cinemark Century 16, H.K. Café, and the newest addition, Hong Phat—the fourth store in the Asian grocery chain, which opened in 2024 at the former Walmart location.
Metro officials say the grant will help fund concept planning and community conversations that will guide the next phase of Eastport Plaza’s evolution.
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New Owners, New Vision
The shopping center was purchased in 2024 by a group led by Dr. Hoang Nguyen, CEO of Columbia Clinic, and Brandon Wang, CEO of Hong Phat. Both have strong ties to East Portland, and both say the grant marks a pivotal step in transforming the site into a more vibrant community space.
Nguyen expressed excitement over Metro’s decision, calling it a major opportunity to improve the livability of the surrounding area and make the plaza “brighter, safer and more fun” for everyone.
Crime Trends Show Improvement in Lents Neighborhood
Eastport Plaza sits within the Lents Neighborhood, which has experienced a steady drop in reported crime over the past several years. According to data from the Portland Police Bureau:
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2022: 2,069 total reported crimes
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2023: 1,822 reported crimes
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2024: 1,476 reported crimes
However, 2025 has seen a slight uptick so far, with 1,189 crimes reported this year compared to 1,077 during the same time period in 2024.
Nguyen said safety remains a top priority, noting that the grant provides a chance to support long-term improvements. “This is an area of town where we can improve safety,” he said. “Our hope is to somehow help contribute to the solution.”
Housing, Jobs and Community-Driven Development
Alongside safety, the redevelopment project aims to create new opportunities for housing, employment and community-serving businesses. The Portland Bureau of Planning and Sustainability (BPS) is leading the conceptual master planning process.
BPS Chief Planner Patricia Diefenderfer said the grant will help explore ways to utilize the large site more effectively over time, ensuring it meets community needs. She emphasized that strong community participation will shape the final vision.
“This is an opportunity to work with community partners to establish a vision that supports the needs and priorities of the community,” Diefenderfer said. “The Metro funding ensures we can conduct robust community engagement.”
Collaboration With Local Organizations
The planning process includes a partnership with the 82nd Avenue Coalition, a collective of nonprofits focused on improving livability and transportation on the corridor. Member groups include Oregon Walks, Unite Oregon, Verde and APANO.
These organizations will help ensure residents—especially those historically underrepresented—have a strong voice in shaping the future of Eastport Plaza.
Part of a Larger Regional Investment Effort
Metro distributes up to $4 million annually through its 2040 Planning and Development Grants, supporting projects that advance housing, economic growth, and sustainability across the region.
This year’s awards include:
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$350,000 for Eastport Plaza
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$306,000 for the City of Lake Oswego to support housing and economic development
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$700,000 for Clackamas County to study industrial development options
The Eastport Plaza project stands out due to its size, potential impact, and location on a corridor undergoing significant revitalization.
