Couch Park

Historic Background

Couch Park is located at the intersection of Northwest 19th Avenue and Glisan Street in Portland, Oregon. Named after merchant John H. Couch, the park was acquired by the city in 1977. The park spans 2.39 acres (0.97 hectares) and is situated adjacent to the Metropolitan Learning Center, a public K-12 magnet school.

The site of Couch Park was once the estate of 19th-century merchant Cicero Hunt Lewis, who married Captain Couch's daughter Clementine. The estate included a mansion, stables, and a greenhouse, all constructed in 1881.

Development and Community Involvement

After the Lewis house was demolished, the Portland School District acquired the property in 1913 and used the land as a playground for the newly built Couch School.

In 1975, a community-driven master plan was created to guide Couch Park's design and construction. Metropolitan Learning Center students and local residents participated in the park's development, including the construction of its play structure. The park officially opened to the public in 1977.

Recent Renovations

Over the years, Couch Park has undergone several renovations and improvements. In 2014, the original wooden play structure, which had stood for approximately 40 years, was removed due to deterioration.

In May 2019, thanks to the 2014 Parks Replacement Bond passed by Portland voters and a partnership with Harper's Playground and Friends of Couch Playground, a new inclusive playground, plaza, and Portland Loo were opened to the public.

Natural Features

The park features over one hundred trees representing dozens of species, including birch, cedar, elm, fir, maple, pine, and various fruit trees. European white birch and English trees are the most abundant species in the park.

This diverse array of trees contributes to the park's pleasant atmosphere and provides shade for visitors. Couch Park serves as a popular neighborhood gathering spot, offering recreational opportunities for local residents and visitors alike.

Its location in the historic Alphabet District of Northwest Portland makes it easily accessible to the surrounding community.