Why a Strategic Action Plan?

In 2011, the City of Salem developed a Strategic Action Plan to guide decisions on how to best use funds from the Riverfront-Downtown Urban Renewal Area. This plan provided a multi-year strategy to help Salem recover from the economic recession and prepare for future growth.

The plan identified key projects and initiatives aimed at revitalizing downtown Salem. These projects focus on preserving the historic district, improving the retail core, increasing housing options, and fostering partnerships. By prioritizing these efforts, the plan ensures Riverfront-Downtown Urban Renewal Area funds are used effectively to align with community goals, enhance the downtown area’s appeal, and create a vibrant space where people can live, work, and enjoy themselves. 

Why Is This Important?

A thriving downtown benefits the entire city. By investing in downtown Salem, the city can attract new employers, support existing businesses, and create a stronger local economy. The projects outlined in the Strategic Action Plan not only improve the physical environment but also enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors. These improvements make downtown Salem a more desirable place to shop, dine, and explore, which in turn boosts tourism, property values, and job opportunities. For decision-makers, the plan serves as a roadmap to ensure funds are spent in ways that maximize impact and align with the community’s long-term vision.

Progress Since 2011

Since the plan’s adoption, RDURA funds have supported several key projects, including:

• Renovating buildings to reduce vacancies and attract new businesses.
• Contributing to the construction of the Peter Courtney Minto Island Pedestrian and Bicycle Bridge.
• Adding bike lanes to improve transportation options.
• Installing art pedestals to enhance the cultural appeal of downtown.

These projects have helped transform downtown Salem into a more vibrant and accessible area, benefiting residents, businesses, and visitors alike.

Action Plan Documents

The Strategic Action Plan includes several supporting documents that provide detailed information about the projects and their impact. These documents include:

• Downtown Strategic Action Plan
• Appendix A: Project Sheets
• Appendix B: Evaluation Matrix
• Appendix C: Existing Conditions Report
• Appendix D: Salem Plan Review Memo
• Appendix E: Historic Downtown Core Interview Notes

Future Opportunities

In 2018, the City of Salem retired a $30 million bond that funded the construction of the Downtown Salem Convention Center. With the retirement of this bond, Riverfront-Downtown Urban Renewal Area now has the opportunity to fund larger, qualified projects that can further enhance downtown Salem.

To build on the Strategic Action Plan, the City held focus group meetings in 2017 to review and prioritize projects. Streetscape improvements were identified as a top priority due to their potential to increase property values, attract tourism, support business growth, and improve livability.

As part of this effort, the City issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) #178065 on May 25, 2017, to gather public input on the Downtown Salem Streetscape Plan. The Request for Proposal process allows the community to share ideas and provide feedback before finalizing the project. The Request for Proposal closed on July 14, 2017, and the input collected will help shape the future of downtown Salem.

Conclusion

The Strategic Action Plan has played a vital role in shaping the growth and revitalization of downtown Salem. By focusing on projects that align with community goals, the City ensures that Riverfront-Downtown Urban Renewal Area funds are used effectively to create a vibrant, attractive, and economically strong downtown. As new opportunities arise, such as the retirement of the convention center bond, Salem is well-positioned to continue building on this success and creating a thriving downtown for all.