PORTLAND NIGHT SERVICE MARKET
What if a Night Market Model were Applied to Houseless Services?
This project considers alternatives to current solutions to Portland, OR’s housnig crisis through utilizing existing infrastructures to support our unhoused neighbors.
Why Night Markets?
Night Markets are street markets that operate after dark. They usually offer eating, shopping, and entertainment. The even is made up of a collection of vendors and services, can be held in an open-air or indoor venue, and offer a safe gathering space at night to the community. Some markets are held in residential areas, providing nighttime gathering spaces outside of urban cores, while some remain in city centers. The night market’s ability to organize a group of diverse vendors in a way that is nomadic, efficient, and inviting makes the night market a compelling model to explore towards providing services to unhoused communities.
Market Implementation
Pre-existing markets and fairs in Portland will be given the option to leave behind their infrastructure (ie, canopies, electricity hook-ups, port-a-potties, etc.) for several days after their event to host the “Night Service Market” in exchange for benefits from the city such as: expedited permits, discounted event fees, etc. The breakdown and return of equipment can then be done by the Service Market crew and returned after the event.
