A Sight to Dwell Upon and Never Forget: Illuminating Strategies for Saving Portland's Neon Signs

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dc.contributor.authorEbersole, Jeremy
dc.date.accessioned2020-10-23T02:25:05Z
dc.date.available2020-10-23T02:25:05Z
dc.date.issued2020-06
dc.description351 page pdf and project presentation video.en_US
dc.description.abstractFew elements of the twentieth century built environment have historically stirred as much optimism, ire, or nostalgia as neon signs. Despite a growing appreciation for its value by both municipalities and the general public, however, the fate of neon signage is far from secure. Significant barriers exist to its conservation and continued in situ existence, with beloved signs continuing to disappear and others languishing in states of disrepair. This project explores solutions to the question of how Portland, Oregon may better ensure that neon signs remain a vital part of its built environment. It argues that neon signs provide multiple civic benefits and advocates for a targeted blend of regulatory tools, economic incentives, and public advocacy and outreach aimed at fostering a socio-economic environment more supportive of their conservation and continued presence. This project first establishes a historic context that includes an overview of the history of neon signage and its relationship with public policy, followed by an outline of the many shining benefits these unique signs provide. By evaluating the relevant state and national tools available for protecting these valuable resources as well as focusing on the protections for Portland neon, it reveals potential for improvement. A curated survey of various strategies being employed around the country to protect neon signage identifies best practices, which are analyzed for their potential to be implemented effectively in Portland, culminating in a menu of recommendations for how city officials and neon advocates can best ensure a bright future for the city’s neon signs. While research and recommendations are geared specifically to neon-rich Portland, the project’s insights are general enough that their relevance extends to other cities as well.en_US
dc.identifier.urihttps://hdl.handle.net/1794/25842
dc.language.isoenen_US
dc.publisherUniversity of Oregonen_US
dc.rightsCreative Commons BY-NC-ND 4.0-USen_US
dc.subjecthistoric preservationen_US
dc.subjectPortland, ORen_US
dc.subjectneon signsen_US
dc.subjectconservationen_US
dc.titleA Sight to Dwell Upon and Never Forget: Illuminating Strategies for Saving Portland's Neon Signsen_US
dc.typeTerminal Projecten_US

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