United States Custom House

"Boston Police" squad cars sit in the Portland Custom House parking lot. They're props for a scene in the TV series, Leverage.

The United States Custom House is a U.S. Federal building built in 1901. The U.S. Federal Government's General Services Administration (GSA) is planning on auctioning it off through their Real Property Disposal Office. Bids open on Tuesday, May 25, 2010. The Real Property Disposal Office's "suggested opening bid" is $2,500,000.

Big Ideas

After sitting vacant for years, Portland's U.S. Custom House is on the GSA's auction block. Now Portlandians have a choice to make:

1. continue lamely staring at the tops of our muddy shoes in regret for failing to come up with a viable plan to make good use of this architectural treasure, or

2. come up with a wonderful idea and a coherent plan to turn your brainstorm into reality.

What is YOUR fantastic idea for Portland's Custom House? (Please list and describe your own idea, or improve upon one of the ideas featured below.)

TV Prop

For shows like Leverage or other Hollywood drivel.

Boutique Hotel

To round out the list of 510 other boutique hotels Google Maps identifies in or near Portland.

Public Market

Even though this idea apparently went nowhere the last time it was floated.

Private School

For children of the overly privileged, and/or their pets.

Bicycle Repair Shop

For really awesome bicycles.

Giant, Architecturally Superior Coffee House

Maybe we can get the Last Poets to perform at the grand opening.

External Links

• U.S. Custom House, Portland, OR: Building Overview
• Portland Custom House - Sale Type: Online Auction - Opening Date: 05/25/2010 09:00:00 PDT
• Detailed Property Information
• U.S. Custom House tour
• Someone with a vision should take on future of Portland's U.S. Custom House

References

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