ASHTON'S
WORK AT METRO
HELPING PEOPLE FIND BETTER JOBS
WITH BETTER PAY
Good jobs are the foundation of a strong community. They provide stability, dignity, and the chance to build a better future, no matter your background or education level. Across the region, we need more opportunities for people to earn a living wage close to home. Ashton’s Metro district has some of the largest sources of job-ready lands and one of the most diverse workforces in the region.
That’s why Ashton has focused on giving people the training needed for higher paying jobs and creating the conditions to let businesses grow and thrive - especially close to home in East County. For him, it is critical that we have available land for manufacturing and other high-wage jobs in sectors that align with our region’s values, as well as people with the skills needed to fill these jobs.​
MAKING HOUSING MORE AFFORDABLE
AND ADDRESSING HOMELESSNESS
The cost of housing is a real challenge in our community and a major driver of why people are becoming homeless. Voters approved key investments to address that through the Metro Housing Bond and funding for Supportive Housing Services.
The bond is on track to build 5,600 affordable homes – 1,700 more than the initial goal – with many meant for working families struggling to get by. Construction on the last of those projects will begin in 2026.
Ashton is leading work to provide better metrics and accountability on how supportive housing funds are addressing homelessness and to ensure that the funding can be used to create more affordable homes.the region.
Our streets are vital for connecting us to jobs, schools, businesses, and our neighbors. Smart transportation policy can improve those connections, while also improving safety and reducing congestion.
This is particularly important for East Portland and East County, which has some of the highest rates of traffic fatalities in the region.
Ashton will continue to bring together state, county, and regional partners to implement local safety plans and create Safe Streets for All. Despite challenges at the state and federal level, he’s committed to fight to protect investments in improving the safety of our streets and investment in public transit.
MAKING OUR STREETS SAFE AND OUR
COMMUNITY CONNECTED
When traveling north and south, 82nd , 122nd , and 148th avenues are integral to transportation in East Portland. Because they are also high-risk corridors for crashes and traffic fatalities, Ashton and Metro are working in close partnership with local governments and community groups to make major safety improvements and provide greater access for transit, walking, and biking along these streets.
Ashton was a foundational part of the 82nd Avenue Coalition to support equitable and sustainable growth along that corridor that preserves its cultural vibrancy and prevents economic displacement.
Ashton is a partner in the work to transform Halsey Street in East County as a hub for local businesses, more housing, and a safe, accessible commercial core for residents and visitors alike. Similarly, Ashton is working with Clackamas County to improve the Sunrise Corridor to reduce congestion, improve safety, and support local businesses and residents.
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INVESTING IN A BETTER, SAFER
82nd, 122nd, and 148th Aves & HALSEY ST.
VOLUNTEER
OPPORTUNITIES
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Ashton is a transformative leader who was instrumental in our advocacy to bring safer streets and $185 million in community investment along 82nd avenue. His vision for safe and walkable communities, transit-oriented development, and expanding access to parks is exactly the kind of leadership that East Portland and East County need on Metro Council.
"
Rep. Khanh Pham
