Pearl Patrol Has Officially Launched!

Pearl Patrol Has Officially Launched!

The Pearl District Neighborhood Association officially launched its new Pearl Patrol program on July 6, part of the broader Re-Ignite the Pearl summer campaign. In just its first week, close to 35 volunteers from across the neighborhood completed orientation training at The Fields Bar & Grill, followed by hands-on field training.

Patrol volunteers, easily recognized by their distinctive black-and-white safety vests, work in teams to serve as the neighborhood's eyes and ears: identifying livability and public safety concerns and helping ensure timely responses. Beyond monitoring conditions, patrollers act as goodwill ambassadors, connecting with residents, visitors, and business owners and helping promote neighborhood events like the music festivals, Yoga in the Park, and the Pearl Culinary Farmers Market.

The program is led by volunteer coordinator Linda Witt, alongside longtime PDNA volunteers Jim Rice, Bill Truncali, and John Hollister. The team developed a training guide that has earned praise from Portland Police Bureau representatives and homeless-services professionals, and PPB representatives are expected to join future patrol walks.

"Participants enjoy camaraderie, civic engagement and the satisfaction of making a meaningful impact on the neighborhood," said Witt.

The association is actively recruiting more volunteers. Community members aged 21 and older interested in joining a patrol team can contact Linda Witt at lindawittextra@gmail.com.

Updated Park Closure Hours

Effective August 3, 2026, Jamison Park and Tanner Springs Park will close earlier in the evening: at 10pm instead of midnight. This means that overnight use of the park can be reported to the Parks - Ranger Call Center by emailing rangercallcenter@portlandoregon.gov.