Meet Me in Montavilla is a community storytelling and public art project that highlights the neighborhood’s rich history and the people who shaped it. Through history-based art installations, interpretive signage, and a walkable tour, the project invites visitors and residents to learn, explore, and experience Montavilla in new ways.
Project Overview
Launched through Venture Portland’s Major Impact Grant, Meet Me in Montavilla combines:
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Public art installations
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A district-wide history walking tour
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Neighborhood branding and wayfinding
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A forthcoming tourism website
The project centers stories from Montavilla’s past—especially those connected to historically marginalized communities—to build a more welcoming and connected district.
Plaza Trolley Installation
The first major installation—the Montavilla Trolley—was unveiled in November 2025 at the Montavilla Public Street Plaza (SE 79th & Stark).
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Artist/Designer: Marilyn Shawe
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Fabrication: High Order Design & Fabrication
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Engineering: Grummel Engineering
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Permitting: Portland Bureau of Transportation
This trolley serves as the project’s HUB installation and a playful community landmark designed for learning and photo opportunities.
Walking Tour (2026 Launch)
Phase 2 will introduce additional installations at historic sites across the neighborhood, creating a walkable tour. The first stop will highlight:
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Dr. DeNorval Unthank, a prominent Black physician who briefly lived in Montavilla
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Shiloh Baptist Church, believed to be Portland’s first all-Black congregation
Interpretive displays will be located at Highland Christian Center (NE Glisan & 76th).
Digital Hub
The project’s companion website, meetmeinmontavilla.com, is in development for a 2026 launch. The site will feature:
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Neighborhood history
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Walking tour maps
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Local business highlights
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Project updates and events
Project Partners
Project Team:
Neil Mattson, Leah Kohlenberg, Brenda Dunn, Rebecca Clover
Marilyn Shawe (Artist & Designer)
Savina Monet (Website & Brand Design)
Patricia Sanders (Historian)
High Order Design & Fabrication
Grummel Engineering
Funders & Sponsors:
Venture Portland — Major Impact Grant
Prosper Portland
Portland Bureau of Transportation
Mr. Plywood
Ribbon Cutting – December 3, 2025
Celebrate the launch of the Montavilla Trolley at the Montavilla Public Street Plaza.
Save the date: December 3, 2025 — Time TBA.
More updates coming soon.
