Now’s your chance to influence what happens downtown. Six Streetscape Design focus groups are scheduled January 30, 31 at the Salem Public Library Anderson Room. The most important happen Tuesday at 3:30 (Street furniture) and 5:30 (Gathering and Event Spaces.
Salem Creative Network is advocating for an Entertainment District with extended hours for noise, alley improvements for events (electrical, lighting, weather protection) and parklets, street dining, free speech kiosks and public restrooms.
Please send an email if you’re unable to go.
Downtown Salem Streetscape Plan – Focus Group Schedule
Day 1 – January 30th
Trees and Landscaping
January 30, 1:30 – 3:00
This group will discuss existing street trees and their contributions to downtown streetscape aesthetics and environment and how trees could be effective in the Plan. Other landscape plantings or vegetation will also be discussed.
Street Furniture and Materials
January 30, 3:30 – 5:00
This group will discuss existing street furnishings and sidewalk materials and discuss what can be retained as well as consistent conceptual approaches for new furnishings and paving.
Gathering and Event Spaces
January 30, 5:30 – 7:00
This group will discuss sidewalk places where people gather in the downtown Salem area and how these places can be improved for safety and comfort.
Day 2 – January 31st
Connecting Places
January 31, 1:30 – 3:00
This group will discuss how people move on foot through downtown Salem, including connections from the State Capitol and Riverfront Park and key destinations in the study area.
Art and Signage
January 31, 3:30 – 5:00
This group will discuss opportunities to provide better pedestrian-scale signage to aid with wayfinding downtown, as well as, the benefits/opportunities for public art.
Business Considerations
January 31, 5:30 – 7:00
This group will be focused on how a range of streetscape improvements should positively benefit adjacent businesses and how businesses will participate in the streetscape improvement program.