Taylor Griggs

Taylor Griggs

Taylor Griggs is Portland Mercury's news reporter. She is interested in all of your ideas, comments and concerns, but particularly those related to transportation, climate, labor and Portland city government. Send Taylor an email at tgriggs@portlandmercury.com, and find her on Twitter @taylorjgriggs

Recent Articles

Portland Youths Call for Local, State Climate Action at Annual Climate Strike

Hundreds of Portlanders gathered Friday, Sept. 15 to demand Gov. Tina Kotek declare a climate emergency and take action against Zenith Energy.

Organizing Portland: Local Labor Organizers See Surge in Union Solidarity, Diversity

Independent union membership is growing at Portland retail stores, restaurants, and even strip clubs. Longstanding unions are also receiving community support.

Transportation Sep 11 4:29 PM

TriMet Joins Portland's War on Drugs

After a study found negligible amounts of meth and fentanyl residue on transit, TriMet calls for a "crackdown." Experts recommend a more nuanced approach.

Fall Arts 2023 Sep 6 3:43 AM

Why Were So Many Libraries Closed This Summer?

Seven of 19 Multnomah County libraries are currently closed for renovation—here’s why.

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News Aug 31 11:03 AM

Missing the Forest and the Trees: How City Politics Are Getting in the Way of Portland’s Tree Canopy

Experts say trees play a key role in combating the effects of climate change, but Portland’s convoluted system has led to confusion and neglect.

News Aug 30 4:45 PM

The Race For Portland's Next City Council Has Already Begun

As the city gears up for a new government structure and a 12-person council, candidates are kicking off campaigns for a pivotal 2024 election.

News Aug 30 10:00 AM

2024 Election: Portland City Council Candidates Already Scrambling For Public Campaign Dollars

With new City Council districts confirmed, campaigns are already underway for 12 council seats.

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News Aug 30 7:30 AM

Low Pay and High Consequences: PSU Adjuncts Say Treatment of Part-Time Instructors Reveals Institutional Problems

Adjunct faculty at Portland State University, currently bargaining for higher wages, say they aren't being fairly paid for their contribution to Portland's largest university.

News Aug 24 2:32 PM

Long Live Outdoor Dining: Portland Takes Steps to Implement Permanent Street Seating Program

Outdoor dining became popular amongst Portland restaurant owners and customers during the pandemic. The Portland Bureau of Transportation wants to make it a permanent fixture on the streets.

News Aug 21 9:57 AM

UPDATED: Charter Reform: District Commission Moving Ahead With Voting Map Combining Sellwood With West Side

The Independent District Commission is expected to vote to approve the Alder map, marking the next step in the city transition.

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Culture Aug 17 8:00 AM

Knot Springs and the Hot Tub Financial Disparity Machine

Visiting Portland’s fanciest spa, or how I learned to stop worrying and love the cold plunge.

News Aug 16 2:55 PM

Amid Stifling Heat Wave, Multnomah County Lacks Dedicated Shelter Spaces

Despite 69 heat deaths in 2021 and more suspected deaths this week, cooling centers and resources aren't guaranteed.

Transportation Aug 9 4:22 PM

Cops, Cameras, and "Safe Systems": The Debate About Curbing Traffic Violence on Portland's Streets

Portland continues to experience record-breaking numbers of traffic crash fatalities. With funding and political barriers, what's the best way to keep people safe on the streets?

News Aug 2 3:04 PM

Powell's Workers, Fed Up With "Poverty Wages," Move Closer to a Strike

Employees at the world's largest independent bookstore voted to authorize a future strike, citing stagnant wages that diminish the value they bring to the beloved stores.

News Aug 2 9:37 AM

Before Fire, City Inspectors Warned Former Kmart Site Owners of Code Violations

The real estate company co-owned by an NFL team owner was told to board up the outer Northeast Portland property. Now, the company faces a class action lawsuit.

News Jul 30 7:03 PM

With Revenue Windfall, Portland Clean Energy Fund Committee Approves Climate Investment Plan

Despite past hiccups, PCEF is now on track to dole out $750 million on carbon cutting projects through 2028.

News Jul 21 1:42 PM

Asbestos Found in Northeast Portland Fire Debris, Stoking Neighborhood Health Fears

A fire at a former Kmart building earlier this week spread toxic ash around the neighborhood. Nearby residents say it's another example of "repeated trauma" at the site.