What's Happening?
A new 124-unit affordable housing community, Legin Commons, has opened in Southeast Portland, honoring the legacy of the former Legin Restaurant. The restaurant, an iconic Chinese eatery, was demolished
in 2012 to make way for an expansion of Portland Community College (PCC). The Legin Commons project, co-developed by APANO and Our Just Future, is partially funded by the voter-approved Metro Affordable Housing Bond. The name 'Legin Commons' was chosen to commemorate the restaurant's history, with the approval of the original owning family. Wanna Lei, who worked at Legin Restaurant after immigrating from China, is now the resident services manager for APANO and is involved in serving the residents of Legin Commons. The apartment complex is located near the former restaurant site, which is now part of PCC's Southeast Campus. The design of Legin Commons' signage draws inspiration from the restaurant's original carp logo and typeface.
Why It's Important?
The opening of Legin Commons addresses a critical need for affordable housing in Portland, particularly within the ethnically diverse Jade District. This development provides 124 homes, offering stability and community to residents. Beyond its practical function, the project holds significant cultural importance by preserving the memory of Legin Restaurant, which was a vital hub for local Asian communities. The restaurant, known for its large banquet hall and authentic Chinese cuisine, played a key role in Portland's Chinese dining scene and served as a gathering place for weddings and celebrations. By naming the new housing after Legin, the developers acknowledge and honor the cultural heritage and historical contributions of the Chinese-Vietnamese immigrant community that established the restaurant. This initiative demonstrates how urban development can integrate historical preservation and community identity while addressing contemporary social needs.
What's Next?
Legin Commons is currently accepting applications for its units, with the first tenants expected to move in within the next two weeks. APANO, one of the co-developers, is in the process of developing services for the residents, which may include financial literacy and workforce development programs. These programs aim to equip tenants with skills for higher-paying jobs and help them navigate and flourish in Portland. The project serves as a model for how communities can address housing shortages while respecting and integrating local history. The success of Legin Commons could influence future affordable housing initiatives in Portland and other cities, encouraging similar approaches that blend community development with cultural preservation. The ongoing support services will be crucial in ensuring the long-term success and well-being of the residents.
Beyond the Headlines
The story of Legin Commons highlights the complex interplay between urban development, historical memory, and community identity. The demolition of Legin Restaurant, while necessary for the expansion of Portland Community College, represented a loss of a significant cultural landmark for the local Asian community. However, the subsequent creation of Legin Commons demonstrates a thoughtful approach to mitigating such losses by actively incorporating the restaurant's legacy into the new development. This initiative underscores the importance of community engagement and historical recognition in urban planning. It also reflects a broader trend of cities seeking to create inclusive spaces that honor the diverse histories of their residents, rather than erasing them. The project serves as a powerful example of how a community can transform a past loss into a new opportunity, creating much-needed housing while simultaneously celebrating its heritage and fostering a sense of belonging for its residents.
