The initial location (160 sq ft) is too small to support having all tools at one site, so we continue the search for a more permanent location.
Location desires:
- space (320-1000 sq ft) alternatively (larger or multiple) shipping containers
- heat
- hard floor (but no carpet)
- electricity
- external entrance
- parking (a couple spaces, transit/walkability also important)
- security (not staffed most of the week, so storage as opposed to storefront)
- allow modifications (not a hard requirement)
- utility sink and ideally restroom
- workshop, possibly expanding to classroom area
- network (it would be nice if we can piggyback on something available)
Location suggestions: (Four Portland tool libraries are in church space, one is in a community building, and two are in government-owned buildings)
- Gabriel Park - fell through most likely due to pandemic timing
- Woodworker's Guild - interest in our project, but cannot host
- Garden Home Rec Center - confirmed "no"
- St. Luke Lutheran church - Environmental Stewardship Team has interest, but current spaces are in use for other charitable purposes
- St. Andrews Presbyterian Church - supportive, but could not find space
- Hillsdale UCC - response: no space available
- St. Barnabas - request in - so far no response
- Portland Christian Center - supportive, but no space
- West Portland UMC - tentative container location, discussions happening
- Vermont Hills UMC - tentative container location, but infrequent contact
- Neighborhood House - suggested, but not sure of contact
- Safeway on BHH and space by Rite Aide - lease agents contacted, no response, but also none expected. Lack of revenue likely prohibits commercial space
- Sears Armory - contacted PBEM and local NETs - response: goal to still be West-side emergency operations center in the future, usage stalled by ADA improvement costs. We've asked to be included in community feedback when the next proposal is written.
- Multnomah Arts Center - managed by Parks Department. In Fall 2023 annual rate for a cottage or classroom was $16.49/sq foot.
The classroom would be a good size, but is $978/month, which is still beyond our budget.
- Smith School - not available for lease per PPS facilities
- Barbur Transit Center - no response
- Hillsdale Library - interested, but no space
- Latvian Community Center - no space
- Habitat For Humanity - no space