Some are in opposition because the project would require demolition of historic buildings, low-cost housing, and a narrow streetscape that makes the area uniquely quaint. Some object to the cost and design, while others have expressed concern that the promenade would create a dead zone for retail trade rather than help it.

The Portland Redevelopment Commission has estimated the cost of acquiring land, developing the park and constructing underground parking at $82 million, more than twice the city's park budget.

The area under consideration is a 100-foot-wide strip between Salmon and Burnside streets and Park and Ninth avenues. The city has authorized a $150,000 study by a group of local urban planning experts to decide the fate of the area. Today at 6 p.m., the public will have an opportunity to tell these experts what type of revitalization they want. The hearing--the second one this week--will be held in the Portland Building, at 1120 SW Fifth. The planning group will present its ideas to the city on Friday.