Did you know some of PSU’s brightest Master of Urban & Regional Planning students, in collaboration with Lloyd EcoDistrict and dozens of Lloyd and subject area experts, have been exploring how Lloyd’s empty office spaces could become vibrant homes? Their new Existing Conditions report addressing the first half of their project, “Lloyd Office to Residential Conversions: A Housing Crisis Response,” explores contextual background as they explore Lloyd-specific challenges to Portland’s housing shortage. 

For example, did you know Lloyd’s zoning allows significant changes, making it easier to convert offices into homes? And that financial challenges, particularly seismic retrofit requirements, are significant, recent policy changes aim to ease these burdens?

In late May, the students will release policy concept recommendations to guide these transformations, potentially setting a precedent for Lloyd and urban centers struggling with similar challenges.

Why it matters: Transforming these spaces can revitalize our neighborhood, making it more lively and inclusive while addressing critical housing needs. This is particularly relevant as Lloyd transitions from a primarily commercial to a primarily residential neighborhood. Stay tuned for these crucial insights that could shape the future of Portland!

Read the report here: PSU MURP: Lloyd Office to Residential Conversions – Existing Conditions Report