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Salem is poised to become a 'knowledge economy' city

by TONY NIELSEN

March 31, 2006

Salem has a head start in the emerging global competition between cities.

Across America and the world, cities are striving to attract "cultural creative" people and the new "knowledge economy" businesses. New trends in urban planning and real-estate development are leading the way.

Salem's head start is the vibrancy of its downtown, which is a result of the hard work of citizens and elected officials over many years. Forward-thinking planning and development led to urban-renewal projects like the Civic Center, Salem Center and Pringle Creek Plaza. We have preserved beautiful historic buildings, and we continue to see them fill up with unique businesses.

Salem is fortunate to have wonderful parks that provide a variety of recreational and social opportunities.

Another big advantage comes from "Brand Oregon" -- who wouldn't want to live in a state that is green, clean and iconoclastic? We have the elegant benefits of our location -- our proximity to mountains, beaches and Portland. We have two great colleges and a great university in Salem, and five more within an hour's commute.

Salem has been identified as one of the top three cities its size likely to attract the "cultural creatives" over the next decade. State capitals with universities have been labeled the "perfect storm" of development potential by the Urban Land Institute.

We are poised to grow in ways that will create a strong, sustainable economy for our community and region.

Salem's need is not for the simple growth of sheer population. Rather, we need to grow our economy. These are two different things. We need to support the specific kinds of development that will attract innovative and entrepreneurial residents and businesses.

The "knowledge economy" will drive the 21st century. Young people and creative employees are magnets for these businesses. Entrepreneurial energy thrives on young and creative talent.

What kind of communities are attracting and retaining these employer magnets? Cities with urban vitality, with walkable neighborhoods, with density and with transportation alternatives.

In one recent study, 77 percent of "new economy companies" listed strong alternative transportation choices as a key location factor.

Cities of all sizes are finding success in creating urban environments where pedestrians feel empowered, where interesting retail and working environments flourish along with housing for young professionals and city dwellers who bring life, tolerance, diversity and energy to a community.

The funny thing is these are exactly the urban qualities that appeal to "empty nesters" and pre-retirement boomers looking for their next adventure.

Salem is doing well. Exciting things are happening. But cities are in a worldwide competition. Salem needs to excel. We need public policies that recognize the winning trends.

Walkable neighborhoods and mixed-use development require a reworking of the city's development standards and zoning codes. Salem needs the courage to stay ahead of the curve with its transit system.

People want to live in a community with vision and passion. Tolerance and diversity of housing, transportation, culture, education and recreation are critical factors.

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