Courthouse District Draft Concept Plan

New Search

Chapter 1 Introduction The Courthouse District Concept Plan envisions a vital new neighborhood on the east end of downtown Eugene, with a landmark building, a mix of uses, and a connection to the Willamette river. From the construction of the millrace in 1852, to the design of the new Federal Courthouse in 2002, this area has seen 150 years of urban transformation. This concept plan for this area builds on its history, while guiding a transformation 'into the district envisioned for the future. In 2001, General Services Administration selected the former Agripac Cannery property as the site for a new Federal Courthouse. The groundwork for a new Federal Courthouse in downtown Eugene was laid by the Downtown Vision effort in 2000. During this year-long project, citizens and civic leaders worked intensively to craft a vision for the future of down- town. This area of downtown, with its aging indus- trial structures and underutilized land, was seen as a key redevelopment opportunity. 8th Avenue was envisioned as a great civic street, lined with impor- tant public buildings -City Hall, the Lane County Courthouse, the new Federal Courthouse -leading from the heart of downtown to the river. The City has long desired a connection between downtown and the river. Planning documents and reports over the past 30 years have addressed this goal of reconnecting the city to the river, our greatest natural resource. The Federal investment in the courthouse building has created a significant oppor- tunity for the city to work in partnership to make this connection, and to stimulate a vital new district, between the core of downtown and'the river. This opportunity is amplified by the Eugene Water and Electric Board's timely discussion of a phased reloca- tion from its riverfront site. Downtown Vsion diagram. EWEB Plaza along riverfront.