Multnomah County plans to open a 24/7 sobering and stabilization center. This center will provide a safe space for first responders to bring people intoxicated with drugs or alcohol and stabilize them.
The center helps fill a critical gap in crisis services that has existed since Portland’s sobering center closed in 2019. Since then, first responders have had few options besides jails or hospitals for people in crisis.
Location
The County has found a potential site at 1901 SE Grand Ave. This building meets key needs:
- Room for planned services
- No school within 1,000 feet
- Good proximity to hospitals
Services
The new center will have up to 50 beds for sobering and withdrawal care.
While this work is underway, the County will add 13 sobering beds at the temporary Coordinated Care Pathway Center in early 2025.
Project Background
The County is leading the project. An FY25 budget note started the planning work for a 24/7 Drop-off Receiving and Sobering Services Center. Since then, leaders from behavioral health, law enforcement, and local government came together to develop a program model.
The County will announce an opening date after staff finish reviewing the building and planning renovations.
Neighbor Engagement
Neighbors are part of the plan. The County will meet with neighbors to create a good neighbor agreement before the center opens. We will use lessons from other projects to address issues like safety, graffiti, high-impact encampments, and traffic.
Updates will be shared through direct outreach and our website.
Community Engagement Timeline
Phase 1 (Jan-Mar 2025): Site Selection
A community meeting will be scheduled in March 2025. To learn about those, use the form below to sign up for updates.
Phase 2 (March 2025): Design & Construction
The community will work together to establish a collaborative good neighbor agreement. A good neighbor advisory group will be convened that includes:
- Businesses
- Community-based organizations
- Providers/peer organizations
- Law enforcement
- Elected officials
- Other neighbors
Phase 3 (2025-2026): Operations Planning
Feedback and agreements from Phase 2 will be collected and reported back to an ongoing Sobering & Crisis Stabilization Leadership Team.
- The community will continue to work together to implement the good neighbor agreement.
- Stay updated on progress through public updates, tours, and press releases.
Sign Up for Updates
Fill out the form to receive updates about the development of a permanent sobering and crisis stabilization center in Multnomah County.