Advancing Places
Portell Works guides and manages inspiring
projects that make everyday life better for all.
For too long, city building has been about “bigger is better,” attracting big players with big developments. While this institutional investment is often welcome, it can change the local fabric of a community and fail to serve existing residents and businesses.
Placemaking and livability.
Portell Works pursues a different approach to community development, one that makes sense locally and enhances the quality of life for everyone. Large developments can be part of the solution, but so can adaptive reuse, small-scale development, inclusive placemaking, workforce housing and safe, accessible street design. We study the local context and advance urban districts in ways that align with the community’s needs. Development is informed by the community’s vision, instead of the other way around. Like-minded investors are met with timely responses and pragmatic decision-making that keep things moving forward.
Downtown and district champions.
Portell Works has extensive professional expertise in urban renewal authorities, business improvement districts and downtown development authorities. We are your partner on the leadership team – strategic thinkers who can manage the details of bringing a place to life, from the planning and politics to the financing and public partnerships.
Portell Works draws on a network of high-performing specialists to accomplish:
- Relationship-building across government entities, businesses, landowners, citizens & developers
- Branding & marketing
- Public finance
- Creative placemaking
- Urban planning & design
- Economic development
- Pedestrian safety & mobility
“Hilarie is the kind of leader every downtown dreams of – experienced, collaborative and all about community. She brings people together, fuels smart growth and keeps our city’s character alive. With her, downtown Englewood will thrive for decades to come.”
~ Erika Zierke
Owner, Englewood Grand
“Hilarie defines the problem, understands what is needed, researches, analyzes and formulates a game plan with recommended actions. She is industrious and interacts effortlessly with all disciplines, entities, agencies and staff.”
~ Montgomery Force
Executive Director Lowry Redevelopment
