Portland's growth boundary has not only protected outlying forests and farmland but also pushed development back into the central city. That, say proponents, has rebuilt Portland and saved money on new roads, schools and water services in the suburbs. Evidence of Portland's redevelopment is everywhere. Empty factories and warehouses have been converted into loft apartments and retail centers. The growth boundary encircles 365 square miles, or 234,000 acres.
Development is controlled under a master plan.
Single-family lot sizes have shrunk from an average of 13,000 square feet in 1979 to 6,700 square feet. Builders blame Portland's growth boundary for raising land costs by 300 to 400 percent in seven years, and for forcing buyers to build on small lots. Chandler doesn't oppose the growth boundary but said it must expand faster to meet development needs. About 3,000 acres have been added to the boundary area since its adoption in 1979. Even supporters of the growth boundary acknowledge that it has helped push up home prices, making it hard for first-time home buyers.