Destroying St. Johns Small Business Massive Development —Out of State Investors— Demanding Millions and Taking Over Streets

On June 27th, Wayne Petersen, owner of St. Johns Marine, urgently reached out to us for assistance. An out-of-state investor is planning a massive development project in the neighborhood, and the conditions set by the investor have raised monumentally serious concerns that demand immediate attention.

Photos were provided by Janet Peterson. Photo details: St. Johns Marine Wayne Petersen (owner), Janet Petersen (wife and mother), Brandon Petersen (mechanic, and Wayne and Janet Petersen’s son). Father and son Wayne and Brandon Petersen work and run the St. Johns Marine.

The investor is demanding that the surrounding streets and infrastructure, particularly along Crawford, be improved before they proceed with their development. The burden of funding these improvements has unfairly fallen on the two remaining small local businesses, St. Johns Marine and St. Johns Truck & Equipment, located along Crawford. Both businesses fear that the exorbitant costs involved will force them out of business, jeopardizing the livelihoods of hardworking individuals who have dedicated their lives to serving the community.

The investor plans to construct 450 units below the businesses. This significant increase in population will inevitably strain the already limited traffic flow and pose safety risks, especially in an emergency where quick evacuation would be necessary.

Photo provided by Janet Petersen. Photo details: Crawford Street’s hill.

The Portland Bureau of Transportation (PBOT) has proposed that St. Johns Marine contribute $12,600 monthly for 20 years towards the improvement projects. However, this financial burden is unrealistic for the business, as their monthly income falls far short of such a steep payment.

The concerns continue to mount for both St. Johns Marine and St. Johns Truck & Equipment. They fear being pushed out of business by this out-of-state developer, who shows little regard for their impact on our local community. Access to their businesses is at stake, with the potential loss of loyal customers who rely on their specialized services. Moreover, the existing challenges of winter weather and difficult road conditions on Richmond further complicate matters.

The proposed construction of the units on the other side of the railroad tracks raises additional safety concerns. With trains often stopping for extended periods along this track, people could find themselves trapped on the opposite side during emergencies, unable to access help.

Furthermore, the anticipated surge in traffic resulting from the development project exacerbates the existing parking issues in St. Johns. The limited parking spaces are frequently occupied in a way that blocks crosswalks and driveways, compromising pedestrian safety. Additionally, the roads leading to the riverfront area are already congested due to parked cars, and the influx of vehicles will only exacerbate the problem.

It is crucial to find a fair and sustainable solution that protects the interests of our local businesses, ensures the safety of residents, and preserves our community’s unique character.

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Pending Funding: The St. Johns Review is investigating this matter. We are speaking with the Portland Bureau of Transportation, business owners, residents, and the lawyer representing St. Johns Marine and St. Johns Truck & Equipment. We will also reach out to the out-of-state investors mentioned here. Updates to this investigation will be printed in next month’s print of The St. Johns Review Newspaper.

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