City of Portland and Sellwood Community House Will Reactivate Laurelhurst Studio Through Public-Private Partnership

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(Portland, Oregon) -

Portland Parks & Recreation (PP&R) and the City of Portland today announced a strategic public-private partnership with Sellwood Community House (SCH) to reactivate Laurelhurst Studio in Laurelhurst Park. Through a long-term lease, SCH will invest private funds and in-kind support to restore the historic studio, assume operations and programming, and maintain the space for community use. By pairing private investment with strong nonprofit stewardship, the City can renew cherished spaces while preserving public access and public benefit, all without requiring new City capital investment.

SCH has experience operating and activating City spaces. Since 2019, SCH has operated the former Sellwood Community Center as an intergenerational hub.In 2025, SCH partnered with the City to reactivate the Shack in Sellwood Park as a community-funded drop-in recreation site offering arts, music, movement, and cultural programming. And in 2026, SCH will join Preschool for All, adding 20 new seats to a program already serving more than 70 local families.

"Our Sellwood Community House partners have brought exciting and inspiring energy to the former Sellwood Community Center," says PP&R Interim Director Sonia Schmanski. "We are excited to expand our partnership to Laurelhurst Studio, which will again be an accessible community space for dance, fitness, arts education, and community gatherings."

Laurelhurst Studio programming will reflect local and culturally specific organizations through partnership and informed by community engagement.

"We are excited to partner with the City of Portland to reactivate the historic Laurelhurst Studio," says Ashley Murray, SCH Executive Director. "We look forward to forming new partnerships and engaging deeply with the community to bring accessible, diverse, and community-responsive arts programming to a new generation of Portlanders for years to come."

Initial programming is expected to begin in summer 2026. As planning moves forward, SCH and the City will continue to build relationships with Laurelhurst neighbors, community partners to bring this space back to life. Planned programming includes dance, fitness, arts education, and other community-focused activities.

About Laurelhurst Studio: Laurelhurst Studio has long served as a center for dance and performing arts programs in Portland Parks & Recreation. The reactivation will honor the site's historic legacy while expanding access and enriching community life through creative programming and inclusive, public-oriented use.

About Sellwood Community House: Sellwood Community House is a trusted steward of City assets, delivering accessible, inclusive programs that span generations. SCH operates the former Sellwood Community Center, hosts community and cultural programs across the city, and partners with public and private funders to expand opportunities for Portlanders.

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