Inside the Cupola of the Pioneer Post Office one can see the city from its windows. On the walls are photos showing the original views of historic Portland from the date the building was completed. If security measures restrict the public access, the really historic views comparing old and new Portland will lose flavor. Originally this cupola was used by the Custom Service to help catch smugglers trying to bring items into Portland on the river. There was a clear view of the river, unobstructed by the tall buildings of today.

Up-Date on Post Office Eviction Notice:

The plans to make major changes to buildings under Government Services Administration were all going forward October 31, 2002 because available funds were appropriated by a Senator in this fiscal year. The fact that the plans to "earthquake proof" the Post Office and then ensure it impenetrable to possible assassins is circumvented by a new Oregon law that buildings housing judges and courts were required to have parking lots beneath. A hole will go into one of the historic walls to accommodate an underground garage. Considering the car bombs in garages this will make the building less secure, not more. GSA has wanted to use an historic building as a test for an experimental process of base isolation for earthquake protection to prove it works. It is our opinion that if the Government wishes to test an experimental project of "earthquake proofing" they should select a building that is not as solidly constructed and one that is truly at risk of falling in the event of an earthquake and not one that has stood securely for a century and a half. However the good news is there is time. The Post Office has moved out. Please write to:

The Hon. James Oberstar of Minnesota, Chairman
House Committee on Transportation & Infrastructure
US House of Representatives
2365 Sam Rayburn Building
Washington, DC  20515

Ask that the Post Office be returned to the neighborhood and not to proceed with an unnecessary program. The building is strong. It does not need retrofitting. Putting a garage will only make the building less secure.