The Metro Central Enhancement Grants program provides funding for projects aimed at improving neighborhoods that are impacted by the Metro Central waste transfer facility. The grants target a specific geographic area along the west side of the Willamette River, from the Northwest Neighborhood Association to Linnton, and include parts of North Portland, such as the Cathedral Park neighborhood. The program was established over 20 years ago to support community enhancement projects in these areas, and grants are awarded on an annual basis by a committee made up of local neighborhood, business, and environmental representatives.

The 2025 grant cycle is now open, with applications due by November 4, 2024, at 12 p.m. An optional information session for prospective applicants will be held on October 2, 2024, to help guide applicants through the process. Grants are typically competitive, and successful proposals will align strongly with at least one of the program’s goals, which include serving marginalized populations, improving environmental quality, enhancing wildlife and natural areas, and increasing safety, cleanliness, or recreation opportunities in the community.

Eligible applicants include community groups, nonprofits, schools, faith organizations, government agencies, and service groups with tax-exempt status. Projects must take place within the specified target area, and the total funding available for the 2025 grant cycle is approximately $270,000. Grants fund projects for a 12-month period, with awards starting in February 2025.

In 2024, the Metro Central Community Enhancement Committee awarded $326,574 to 12 projects. The committee, chaired by Metro Councilor Mary Nolan, reviews all applications and selects the recipients. Organizations interested in applying or seeking more information can contact Noelle Dobson at Metro for further details or to join the mailing list for updates.