Support performing arts venues, live music - Early on, Salem Vision 2020 participants cited the presence of a strong arts and cultural community, frequent events and festivals in Riverfront Park and Bush Park, and the First Wednesday events as a key strength of the City Center.

Coordinate marketing and advertise City Center activities - The focus of this critical project idea is two-fold: (1) telling the City Center story in a more consistent fashion to a broader audience and (2) getting the word out about activities through a broad reaching, single source of information to bring more people to the City Center.

Expand business and restaurant hours of operation - More than 30,000 employees work in the City Center and 20,000 residents live within walking distance. Shopping or dining in the City Center was the primary reason survey respondents reported for coming to the City Center.

Support more small, locally owned shops and boutiques- This project idea further supports what community members cite as one of the City Center’s strengths – the diverse mix of businesses – from successful department stores to specialty shops. Small, locally-owned shops and boutiques in the City Center complement the Salem Center Mall and provide visitors with a unique shopping experience.

Create more public art opportunities and promote local artists - Throughout Salem Vision 2020, residents, employees, and visitors have described a healthy and vibrant City Center as one with public art on street corners, a collection of distinct galleries and places to watch artists at work. Visioning participants highlighted the strength of the existing and growing art community which sponsors events and art spaces such as the Salem Art Fair and Festival, Hallie Ford Museum, and a growing collection of unique galleries. 

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