Ordinance No. 20316 - Laserfiche WebLink

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DOWNTOWN RIVERFRONT The vision for downtown is an active, strong urban core connected to the river. Bringing downtown development near the banks of the river, and expanding elements of the river environment into downtown, reconnects the city to our heritage and our most precious natural resource. Development near the river brings creates an experience that is both urban and wild, and provides economic development opportunities that are uniquely Eugene. Bringing the river environment into developed areas creates a sense of place based on our great river, and draws people back to the river itself. Eugenians have long envisioned a reconnection between downtown and the Willamette River. In Eugene's earlier days, the river was the center of activity and industry. Over the years, the city has grown away from the river. The river, too, has changed, and the once plentiful Chinook salmon is now federally listed as a threatened species. This plan promotes the development of an environmentally sensitive, "fish friendly" urban waterfront to bring people from downtown to the river. A combination of public and private actions will be required, both in the near and long term, to realize this vision. EWEB Property EWEB's riverfront property represents the best opportunity for the development of a downtown riverfront. This property, approximately 27 acres, is currently used for EWEB's utility operations and administration offices. IfEWEB succeeds in its efforts for a phased relocation from this site, much of this land will become available for redevelopment. Buildings remaining on the site should be evaluated for reuse and historic significance, such as the Steam Plant. A timeline is not identified for EWEB to leave the site, nor has any redevelopment scenario been proposed or approved. The EWEB Property map on page 51 depicts the EWEB riverfront and adjacent areas downtown. The redevelopment of EWEB's property requires a well-conceived concept to bring Eugenians and visitors to the river's edge. A master plan for future development or reuse of the EWEB site is needed, so that short-term actions do not preclude a comprehensive, thoughtfully designed plan for the property in the future. This master plan will emphasize a "people place" on the river, balancing the development potential of the site with an environmental strategy to ultimately benefit the river environment. Ample open space with nearby dense development will provide opportunities to enjoy this special area in all seasons, and strengthen the connection between downtown and the river. Courthouse District The Courthouse district is an emerging downtown area, centered around the Federal Courthouse on the former Agfipac property on East 8th Avenue. This area lies directly between the core of downtown and the river. With the projected transportation improvements to 6th Avenue, 8th Avenue will connect across Mill Street, providing improved pedestrian and vehicular connections. Much of this area is zoned industrial. Rezoning will be required to encourage a mix of uses through private redevelopment. A variety of commercial and residential uses will create the activity consistent with the 28