Item B: City Council Goal Update-Arts and Outdoors

Home Browse Search

At the same time, maintaining and increasing accessible opportunities to recreate and enjoy outdoor and cultural experiences helps strengthen the community and supports Eugene residents - individuals and families - to stay healthy and enjoy life even while dealing with economic challenges. Highlights of Goal Accomplishments: 1) Development of Arts Resources ? Cultural Policy Review Many of the objectives of the Arts and Outdoors action plan, including resource assessment, developing partnerships and identifying opportunities and projects to further the arts and outdoors identity of the community, are being addressed in part through the Cultural Policy Review (CPR) process. The top priority CPR strategies are currently being implemented: Arts and Business Alliance of Eugene – The launch of the Arts and Business Alliance of o Eugene in October was attended by nearly 100 individuals representing both business sectors. The alliance will provide opportunities for the non-profit and for-profit sectors to work together more intentionally to accomplish mutual goals. The alliance has developed a business plan and is currently drafting bylaws for this volunteer effort that is supported by the University of Oregon, Lane Community College, the Eugene Chamber of Commerce, the Convention and Visitors Association and the City of Eugene. Hult Assessment –Steven Wolff, principal with AMS Planning and Research, presented the o findings of the Hult Center operations assessment to the Cultural Services Advisory Committee in January. The assessment includes a benchmark study comparing the Hult Center with seven similar facilities located across the country. Staff will review and discuss the tentative action plan with the committee and stakeholders in February or March. Public Art - Cultural Services staff was successful in receiving a $25,000 grant from the o National Endowment for the Arts to fund a public arts master plan for the City of Eugene. The Public Art Committee and City staff, representing several departments, are currently developing the scope of the work to be done by a public arts consultant. ? Cuthbert Amphitheater in Alton Baker Park The City’s partnership with Kit Kesey and David Leiken continues to deliver a program of high quality community events for all ages and tastes during the summer months at the venue located in Alton Baker Park. Improvements to the seating configuration will increase the capacity and opportunity to secure more popular entertainment offerings in Eugene beginning this season. 2) Development of Outdoors Resources ? A Revitalized Riverfront The 12-mile Ruth Bascom Riverbank Path System was enhanced with the addition of detailed maps and interpretive signs at 13 key locations, directional quarter-mile markers, and a new hand-held map of the system available at a number of destinations throughout the city. Funding came from more than 50 local business and individual sponsorships raised in partnership with the Eugene Parks Foundation, as well as from State of Oregon lottery dollars. In addition, Alton Baker Park received new kiosks and maps, two updated Pre’s Trail maps, and natural area interpretive signage. ? Park Land Acquisition The 2006 Parks Bond funded a number of land acquisitions including the addition of over 250 acres to the Ridgeline Park System, 170 acres to Golden Gardens Park, and nearly 20 acres for the future Santa Clara Community Park. The additional Ridgeline parkland contains endangered Oregon White Z:\CMO\2009 Council Agendas\M090211\S090211B.doc