The downtown has brick sidewalks, trees, flower plantings, fountains, art work. Besides large anchor stores, there are charming smaller shops and eateries and a thriving arts community. Light rail provides service to the east and west sides of the city. A light rail extension line is being built to the airport. A trolley line is being built to circle the uptown and downtown areas.
Bus service is free in the downtown area.
Neighborhood shuttle buses provide transportation to light rail lines. In Portland, there are neighborhoods, not developments. Each has its own name and character. While individual lot sizes might be smaller in new developments, there are planned common areas and walking trails. An urban growth boundary preserves farm land and open space.