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Redevelopment ideas sought for Woodburn building

By: Jeff McDonald//July 1, 2014//

Redevelopment ideas sought for Woodburn building

Jeff McDonald//July 1, 2014//

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The Association Building in downtown has sat vacant for more than two decades, but the city’s urban renewal agency believes it can catalyze revitalization in the area.

On the heels of a feasibility study determining potential uses for the 10,000-square-foot building, the city has issued a request for proposals from developers. The building sits on North Front Street between a central plaza and a main commercial street, and hasn’t been occupied since the Scotts Mills earthquake in 1993. Roughly $850,000 has since been spent on stabilization and exterior improvements, Woodburn urban renewal manager Robyn Stowers said.

“This space is in the general heart of the community,” she said. “The urban renewal agency is offering incentives, including the possible donation of the property – with the addition of grants and loans – to redevelop the building.”

The feasibility study this past fall and winter found that the three most acceptable uses for the building would be as a brewpub, a community center or a business incubator. Other uses are possible, Stowers said.

Local nonprofits, the Boys & Girls Clubs of America and the YMCA have expressed interest, but no proposals have been submitted, she said.

The city will give a formal tour of the building July 9 from 1-4 p.m., but private tours also are available.

Proposals are due Aug. 20. For more information, call 503-980-2485 or visit .



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