CEs: Feel free to use the current lead image, but if you have a photo of a local Portland Loo, please replace.

The problem: A serious lack of public restrooms, even (and sometimes, especially) in the densest of US cities.

Enter: The Portland Loo, a modular, stand-alone, free toilet that lies somewhere between your traditional public restroom and a porta-potty.

Originating in Portland, OR (who could’ve guessed, huh?), the bathroom works to address common concerns surrounding public toilets in cities — such as cleanliness and upkeep — and can be found in locations across the US and Canada, including right here in our city.

What’s new about this loo?

Cleanliness | The coating of the bathrooms makes them particularly easy to clean, and all cleaning + maintenance supplies are located in a cabinet within the unit.
Price | While installation can be on the pricier side, the loo utilizes common components that are typically easy and cheaper to replace. Plus, each bathroom can be solar-powered, making it good for the earth and the city or organization's wallet.
Aesthetic | The stainless steel paneling of the bathrooms features graffiti-proof coating, and the simple, sleek design fits in with most environments.
Safety | Created with input from Portland authorities, the bathroom was specifically designed for safety. Angled louvers (slats) in the walls allow for loud noises to escape while maintaining the occupant's privacy.
Durability | The fixtures used are meant to be durable. If they do need to be replaced, they’re sourced from Portland rather than abroad, making the repair process quicker.
Ease of use | Hand washing stations are attached to the outside of the bathrooms, encouraging quick use to serve more bathroom-goers. Plus, each facility is ADA-accessible.

Where these latrines can be seenCEs: Please edit for accuracy

Downtown, Trinity Street between 4th and 5th streets
Downtown, Brazos Street between 5th and 6th streets
Downtown, 716 E. 6th St.

Where else in Austin would you add a Portland Loo?In NL, delete and replace with engagement module