Approximately one-third of the proposed Corvallis downtown urban renewal district is south of the Marys River. This land includes the Crystal Lake ball fields and boat launch as well as the Evanite property and other parcels. This area is now functionally remote from the adjacent downtown center. The inclusion of these two different areas in the proposed district provides a wonderful opportunity for meaningful efforts to provide a continuous pedestrian and open space system along the Willamette River. This would enhance all of downtown.

Clearly, there many other issues that stand to benefit from the proposed district. The downtown pays its own way under this proposal through a tax increment revenue process. Preservation and rehabilitation of existing buildings and infrastructure will be facilitated. Also, the development of housing, signage and long-term parking will be encouraged.

For all of these reasons, I urge a yes vote of Measure 02-68 to support the Corvallis downtown urban renewal district in the upcoming election.

Brooks Cavin, Corvallis