The South Waterfront is part of the Portland Development Commission's North Macadam Urban Renewal District.

[4] A linear park called South Waterfront Greenway, running along the west bank of the Willamette River, is partially completed.

The Gibbs Street Pedestrian Bridge, which opened in July 2012, connects the South Waterfront District with Lair Hill over I-5.

[8][9] In addition to residences, the district contains restaurants, grocery, retail, and service businesses, with more in the planning stages.

[10][11] Construction of three new OHSU buildings in the district is scheduled to begin in 2016, and the university has earmarked $500 million for the work, which is expected to take about two years.