There's usually a reasonable amount of parking around there, you'll have to dodge produce delivery trucks in the AM, though. (Sheridan Fruit Co is a great place to get a snack!) I'm not sure on hour/meter restrictions, but I remember it being very peicemeal. If it sucks, go a block or 2 in a direction and it'll be different.

Yes it's safe, even at night. (I mean, it's Portland) There's some hombums that live under the Burnside Bridge but I've never had issues with them. Met a nice hobo around there once, too. It was interesting how much knowledge of railroading he had.

Last time I was up there there was a MoW truck parked at Stark St, doing some surveying &c for the new leg of the Wye. I hear that's underway now, so might be cool to get some pix of that.