HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011 06 07 Glenwood Refinement Plan Phase IMEMORANDUM CITY OF SPRINGFIELD
DATE OF WORK SESSION: June 7, 2011
TO: Springfield Planning Commission PLANNING COMMISSION
TRANSMITTAL
FROM: Molly Markarian MEMORANDUM
SUBJECT: Glenwood Refinement Plan Phase I
Metro Plan/Refinement Plan Amendment LRP2008-00017
ISSUE
BRIEFING AND DISCUSSION ABOUT THE DRAFT OPEN SPACE AND HOUSING &
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CHAPTERS FOR THE PHASE I UPDATE OF THE GLENWOOD
REFINEMENT PLAN.
DISCUSSION
At the May 17, 2011 Work Session, staff briefed the Planning Commission on the status of the
Glenwood Refinement Plan Update Project. At that time, staff also presented information on the
Draft Land Use and Transportation Chapters. At this Work Session, staff will continue the
Glenwood Refinement Plan review process by presenting information and answering questions
regarding the Draft Open Space and Housing & Economic Development Chapters.
Staff prepared the Draft Open Space Chapter in coordination with Willamalane starting in
February 2011. In April 2011, the Citizen Advisory Committee (CAC) recommended forwarding
the policies and implementation strategies in each of the six sections of the Draft Open Space
Chapter to the Planning Commission for its consideration. Staff prepared the Draft Housing and
Economic Development Chapter starting in March 2011. In May 2011, the CAC recommended
forwarding the policies and implementation strategies in each of the six sections of the Draft
Housing and Economic Development Chapter to the Planning Commission for its consideration.
A majority of CAC members supported these recommendations, and the reasons for lack of
support were noted. Concurrently with the development of subsequent chapters, staff has
continued to revise the Draft Open Space and Housing & Economic Development Chapters
based on feedback from the CAC and the City Attorney’s Office (Attachments 1 and 2).
ACTION REQUESTED
None – for information only.
ATTACHMENTS
Attachment 1: Draft Open Space Chapter
Attachment 2: Draft Housing and Economic Development Chapter
Open Space Chapter Draft 6 May 26, 2011
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Open Space Chapter
Introduction
The Land Use and Transportation Chapters create future land use patterns in the Glenwood Riverfront
and establish a network of roads, multi‐use paths, and open spaces designed to interconnect and
provide comfort, mobility, safety, and access to the river. The Open Space Chapter supports these other
Chapters by providing policy direction for a contemporary community vision for the Glenwood
Riverfront. Implementation of these policies will improve public connections to the Willamette River;
establish inviting public spaces such as parks, plazas, and multi‐use paths; restore, protect, and enhance
the ecological functions and economic benefits of Glenwood’s natural resources; identify potential risks
from natural hazards and protect from those hazards; and increase public awareness and appreciation
for these natural resources.
In the context of the Glenwood Refinement Plan, open space is synonymous with green space, including
natural resources, stormwater management facilities, and parks. The Open Space Chapter applies to the
area of Glenwood referred to as the ‘Glenwood Riverfront’, which includes approximately three miles of
Willamette River frontage and is comprised of land on either side of Franklin Boulevard and McVay
Highway extending from the I‐5 Bridge to Springfield’s south urban growth boundary in Glenwood, as
depicted in Figure 1. The Glenwood Riverfront and the connected Glenwood Slough present a rare
opportunity to develop an open space system that integrates the restoration, enhancement, and
protection of natural resources that benefit fish and wildlife habitats, with the provision of stormwater
infrastructure from natural drainage and manmade development that helps support the development
and redevelopment envisioned in this Plan, and enables these resources and facilities to co‐exist and be
enjoyed by people on a day‐to‐day basis.
There are several Statewide Planning Goals associated with the use and protection of open space in the
Glenwood Riverfront: Goal 5, Natural Resources, Scenic and Historic Areas and Open Space; Goal 6, Air
Water and Land Resources Quality; Goal 7, Areas Open to Natural Hazards; Goal 8, Recreational Needs;
and Goal 15, Willamette River Greenway. Implementation of the policies in this Chapter ensures that
development of the Glenwood Riverfront meets Statewide Planning Goals while also making the area
inviting to the public, preserving and enhancing the natural qualities of the riverscape1, and providing
areas for recreation, leisure, and stormwater treatment.
All types of open space, including riparian areas, wetlands, hillsides, and park and recreation spaces,
provide numerous intangible benefits for urban locales that increase desirability and property values of
those urban areas. In areas such as the Glenwood Riverfront that are planned for dense, mixed‐use
development, the presence and accessibility of open space are even more vital to successful and
desirable development. The presence of well‐designed and integrated open space in the midst of dense
urban development mitigates much of the impact of density on the residents, visitors, and the
environment. Open space provides places for recreation; protects natural resources and fish and
1 A view of a river and the land surrounding or adjacent to it.
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wildlife habitat; ameliorates the increase in both water and air temperatures due to urbanization; allows
for treatment and management of stormwater through compatible water quality treatment facilities;
and reduces both air and noise pollution. Open space offers an opportunity to rebuild or maintain a
healthy and functional tree canopy. Trees in the urban environment provide many benefits, including
improvement of air quality and reduction of carbon dioxide. Tree canopies help sustain and renew the
hydrologic balance by intercepting and retaining rainfall, and through evapotranspiration. By planning
for natural resource conservation, stormwater management, off‐street bicycle/pedestrian paths, and
parks in a coordinated manner, and by co‐locating these functions within the planned open space areas,
Glenwood Phase 1 aims for an efficient use of the land, thus increasing the amount of land available for
other urban development needs.
Glenwood Riverfront redevelopment presents several opportunities for maximizing the efficiency and
benefits of open space. The riparian area along the Willamette River and other open space preservation
will allow for utilization of unique natural resources in the urban core and provide a meaningful
connection for the population to defining characteristics of the region. Incorporating a network of linear
zones of riparian areas and parks along the riverfront defines the different characteristics of the
transition from a natural to a built form. Each linear zone has its own identity, use types, and
development potential, thereby connecting the river to the urban development.
The extent and health of the riparian area in the Glenwood Riverfront have decreased over the years,
due to: invasive plant species; and the encroachment of urban development and artificial barriers, such
as riprap armoring and fill that has reduced the ability for the riparian area and river to disperse water,
soil, and nutrients through the floodplain, but there is potential for restoration. The existence of Island
Park, as well as the Eastgate Woodlands, the West D Street Greenway, and Millrace Park along the
opposite shore of the Willamette further leverages the value of the riparian green space, providing for
more habitat connectivity and hydrologic benefits. At the same time, the views from these areas toward
a more urbanized Glenwood Riverfront will be mitigated by a protected and restored riparian area along
the Willamette River that is part of a linear park. In addition, there are several opportunities to leverage
the value of open space in the Glenwood Riverfront with surrounding, established development. A new
bicycle/pedestrian bridge connecting the Springfield Downtown area and the Glenwood Riverfront, as
depicted conceptually in the Transportation Chapter, will provide expanded commercial opportunities
for both areas, as well as enhanced recreational use of all the surrounding open space.
The use of identified park blocks that extend from Franklin Boulevard to the proposed riverfront street
will also introduce the value of the riparian area to the high‐density residential mixed‐use development
in the Franklin Riverfront. The park blocks will extend many of the benefits of both the natural
environment and neighborhood desirability that residents and visitors to the area will enjoy in the
Franklin Riverfront.
Given the opportunity presented in the Glenwood Riverfront to interrelate the various types of open
space, the Open Space Chapter consists of sections dedicated to Natural Resources (wetlands, riparian
areas, flood plains, and hillsides), Parks, and Stormwater Quality Management. Each section includes a
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distinct set of objectives, policies, regulatory protections, implementation strategies, and associated
discussion topics. Nevertheless, each section identifies strategies to interconnect their functions and
values in the Glenwood Riverfront.
Natural Resources
Riparian Areas and Wetlands
One of the most valuable components of a river or slough function is the riparian area, which includes
the stream bank and surrounding areas that border their channel. It is within this riparian area that the
many complex biological interactions take place. The riparian area acts in concert with the surrounding
natural and manmade ecosystems. Changes within a river or slough will impact the physical, biological,
and chemical processes occurring within this corridor. Rivers or sloughs normally function within
natural ranges of flow, sediment movement, temperature, and other variables. When development and
riparian degradation go beyond the tolerable ranges of these variables, the delicate balance may be lost.
Maintaining and restoring the natural vegetation within the riparian area is essential to stabilize the
riverbank and to shade the riverbank to keep the water temperature cool. A stable riparian area helps
modulate stream flow, mitigate riverine flood risk, and filter runoff. The riparian area also stores water
and provides a unique habitat for both aquatic and terrestrial plants and animals. Providing and
protecting an adequate vegetated setback along the river and slough is fundamental for meeting
federal, state, and local regulations that protect water quality and endangered species habitat.
While not constituting sizeable acreage, two local significant wetland areas have been inventoried in the
Glenwood Riverfront. One wetland is identified in the westerly end of the Franklin Riverfront; the other
identified wetland is found in the southerly end of the McVay Riverfront, as depicted in Figure 2.
Additionally, the Willamette River and its banks are inventoried as part of the National Wetland
Inventory and are considered significant wetlands. Wetlands are uniquely productive and valuable
ecosystems and provide a wide range of ecological, social, and environmental functions. Often limited
in size, they occur throughout Oregon and are among the most biologically productive and species‐rich
habitats in the state. Wetlands are habitat for plants, animals, invertebrates, fish, and fungi. They store
floodwaters, maintain base flows, and recycle nutrients and chemicals while providing opportunities for
recreation, education, and aesthetic experiences. The beneficial functions of a wetland are physically
and biologically related to the health of the riparian corridor. The preservation of wetlands will also
provide green space for the Glenwood Riverfront and may provide additional useful functions for urban
development, such as stormwater runoff management and/or compatible water quality treatment.
The current regulatory setting includes federal requirements, such as the Clean Water Act and the
Endangered Species Act, as they apply to the Willamette River and the jurisdictional wetlands. State
requirements include the Statewide Planning Goal for the Willamette Greenway and the Department of
State Lands regulations for riparian areas and wetlands.
Statewide Planning Goal 5 requires all significant wetlands and riparian resources to be protected. The
Local Wetlands Inventory and Riparian Corridor Assessment for the Glenwood Area of Springfield,
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Oregon, February 10, 2010 updated these inventoried natural resources for all of Glenwood. As
depicted in Figure 3, there is an existing 75‐foot riparian setback from the top of bank along the
Willamette River and a 50‐foot setback from top of bank along watercourses in Glenwood that are
shown on Springfield’s Water Quality Limited Watercourse Map. Wetland setbacks are 25 feet from the
delineated wetland boundary.
For a long time, the community has envisioned a riverbank in Glenwood that can be viewed and
accessed by the public. Glenwood planning efforts dating back to the 1980s have consistently
recommended riverbank restoration along the Glenwood Riverfront. This vision has been reiterated
throughout this refinement planning process. Springfield is following the best scientific approach known
at the time this Plan was written in recommending policy direction for riparian restoration. The
recommendations are intended to improve the quality of the riverbank for the public and adjacent
development and are in line with examples of existing healthy riparian edges along the Willamette River
in the Glenwood. The recommendations only apply to the existing riparian setback along the Willamette
River, and the policy direction is not an attempt to remove potentially developable acreage in the
Glenwood Riverfront. Implementation of these recommendations is not outside the normal
development review process.
An example restoration diagram (Figure 6) shows the preferred form to achieve the benefits of riparian
function within the existing natural resource reserved areas (75’ setback) along the Willamette River.
The example restoration plan for riparian setback planting and water quality above the Ordinary High
Water Line is consistent with the findings of the City of Portland Willamette Riverbank Design Notebook,
and the subsequent River Plan/North Reach Proposed Draft and the Planner’s Guide to Wetland Buffers
for Local Governments, published by the Environmental Law‐Institute. Scientific research by Oregon
State University and the Tennessee Valley Authority in riverbank erosion and stabilization support this
combination of vegetation and slope management for riparian setbacks. This research finds that
vegetative restoration (Figure 5) provides natural bank stability at the lowest possible cost. In March
2010, the Oregon Department of Environmental Quality produced a cost estimate for riparian
restoration that establishes a per acre cost range for Springfield that equates to an average cost under
$50 per linear foot of bank. Oregon Department of Transportation construction cost estimating tables
from April 2011 and analysis by Clean Water Services of stream restorations support this cost estimate.
Incorporating compatible stormwater treatment within the riparian setback can reduce site
development costs further and enhances the value of the preferred streambank restoration.
Statewide Planning Goal 15, Willamette River Greenway, requires a greenway boundary of 150 feet
measured from the ordinary low water line, which allows development to occur as a discretionary use.
Within this boundary, a Greenway Setback Line is also required to delineate where only water‐
dependent and water‐related development may occur, such as boat ramps, multi‐use paths, and viewing
areas. For much of the Glenwood Riverfront, the location of the Greenway Setback Line has not been
formally established. The Implementation Strategies discussed below include establishing a
standardized 75‐foot Greenway Setback Line in the Glenwood Riverfront, measured from the top of
bank concurrent with the existing riparian setback, as depicted in Figure 4. Formally establishing the
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Greenway Setback Line in the Glenwood Riverfront will reduce uncertainty and provide predictability in
achieving Goal 15 standards for public access to and views of the river, protection of fish and wildlife
habitat, providing riverine flood hazard protection, restoration and enhancement of natural vegetation,
and directing development away from the river.
Objective:
Providing ample opportunities for people to access and enjoy the Willamette River and the natural
environment while providing stable riverbanks and conserving, protecting, restoring, and establishing a
diversity of riparian habitats and wetlands in order to retain their properly functioning condition related
to fish and wildlife habitat, riverine flood control, sediment and erosion control, water quality, and
groundwater pollution.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Restore, enhance, and protect the riverbank and riparian and wetland areas.
o Establish a standardized Willamette River Greenway Setback Line of 75 feet from top‐of‐
bank for water‐dependent and water‐related uses consistent with the existing 75‐foot
riparian setback.
o Partner with property owners, private developers, non‐profit organizations, and other
agencies to seek opportunities and funding sources to acquire property and/or easements
to create a contiguous riverfront that is sensitive to natural resource function and human
interface.
o Restore, enhance, and protect the riverbank and riparian area from the ordinary low water
line to the Riparian Setback Line boundary using plants appropriate to the local urban
aquatic and riparian areas and zones, as depicted in Figure 5.
o Pursue funding for public/private partnerships to achieve riverbank re‐shaping/benching,
stabilization, and riparian and aquatic habitat restoration, as depicted in Figure 6 (also see
Riverfront Linear Park objective).
o Establish policy for vegetation management of riverbank, riparian, wetland, and other
natural resource areas through sustainable landscaping and controlling invasive species
based upon introducing and supporting plants appropriate to the local urban aquatic and
riparian areas and zones.
o Incorporate into the Glenwood Mixed‐Use Riverfront Plan District and the Springfield
EDSPM, as appropriate, riverfront/river bank design concepts for developing an urban
river’s edge along the Glenwood Riverfront that improves conditions for fish, wildlife and
people.
• Integrate natural resources, public interface/built environment, and water resources
management.
o Maintain or establish riparian habitat connectivity to the maximum extent practicable while
allowing for and managing appropriate and limited public access to the river, as well as sight
lines through the riparian area, as depicted in Figure 7.
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o Limit recreation within the Riparian and Willamette Greenway Setback areas to passive
activities including, but not limited to, picnicking, pedestrian activities, cycling, bird
watching, fishing, educational signing, and riverfront viewing.
o Locate a multi‐use path within the Riparian and Greenway Setback areas, at the most outer
edge to the extent possible.
o Allow for Low Impact Development Approaches for Stormwater Quality Management
facilities and/or wetland educational parks that establish or restore natural stormwater
functions to be within the riparian boundary and setback, as depicted in Figures 8 and 9.
o Utilize the objectives, policy and implementation strategies listed in the Riverfront Linear
Park section of this document.
Flood Plains
The Willamette River produced annual flooding that had a major impact on development in Glenwood
until the 1950s. Overseen by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, dams at Hills Creek, Lookout Point, and
Dexter were built at that time on the upper Willamette to prevent annualized flooding. Much of the
Glenwood Riverfront remains in a flood hazard area and the potential of flooding still exists during a
major flood event. The possibility of dam failure also exists, although Corps officials stress that the
likelihood of dam failure is remote. In 2004, Eugene and Springfield adopted a Multi‐Jurisdictional
Natural Hazards Mitigation Plan that covers each of the major natural and anthropogenic hazards,
including riverine and urban flooding, that might pose a risk to the citizens, buildings, or infrastructure in
the area. That plan was updated in 2009 in partnership with the Oregon Partnership for Disaster
Resilience and Oregon Emergency Management. Semi‐annual reviews and full updates of the plan every
five years are required by the Disaster Mitigation Act of 2000.
The Glenwood Riverfront has regulated flood plains identified by the Federal Emergency Management
Agency (FEMA) through the National Flood Insurance Program. Flood plain development is regulated by
the Springfield Development Code, in compliance with Statewide Planning Goal 7, and the National
Flood Insurance Program. The flood plains mapped by FEMA along the Willamette River were
established based on analyses done in the 1970’s, with the maps becoming effective in 1985. The
Springfield Development Code is amended, as needed, to maintain currency with the National Flood
Insurance Program. At the time of adoption of this Plan, efforts are being initiated to identify areas
where flood plain studies and mapping need to be updated, such as the Glenwood Riverfront from the
Union Pacific Railroad Trestle to the Interstate‐5 Bridges.
Objective:
Protect private and public investment, health, safety, and welfare from riverine flooding through the
implementation of development standards that incorporate the requirements of the National Flood
Insurance Program.
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Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Restore, enhance, and protect the riverbank and riparian and wetland areas from encroachment
and impact to their riverine flood control functionality during development or redevelopment.
o Initiate the update of FEMA Floodplain Maps between the Union Pacific Railroad Trestle
and the Interstate‐5 Bridges.
Hillsides
Springfield’s hillsides in general, and the Glenwood Riverfront’s in particular (as depicted in Figure 10),
shape its public realm; contribute to the green and healthy character of the City; maintain air and water
quality and the integrity of the natural ecology; and provide aesthetic, historic, and cultural continuity.
Hillsides attract development because they offer the opportunity for distant views and provide natural
surroundings in an otherwise urban environment. While hillsides have potential private development
value, they also have a role as an environmentally sensitive public resource. Hillside protection as a
natural resource is regulated by Springfield Development Code and in the Springfield Engineering Design
Standards and Procedures Manual (EDSPM). The purpose of Springfield’s existing Hillside Development
Overlay District is to allow responsible and safe development in these areas. The Hillside Development
Overlay District applies to all zoning districts where either the elevation of the land is over 670 feet, or
the slope of the land exceeds 15%. Developed hillsides can become more unstable when their
vegetative cover is disturbed, mass grading occurs, or when the surface or subsurface hydrology is
altered. Hillsides do not lend themselves to development easily; they impose development constraints
and exact added costs, both public and private. Engineering solutions can be found to mitigate these
destabilizing influences at increased development costs. Nevertheless, manmade solutions require
maintenance, repair, replacement, or added public cost at some future time. Undeveloped wooded
hillsides provide economic value by way of the natural system services offered by stormwater
management, pollution control, and soil stabilization.
Wooded areas, regardless of their location in the urban setting, are especially valuable in the role they
play in maintaining air quality. They can act as a carbon sink, defined as an environmental reservoir that
absorbs and stores more carbon than it releases, thereby offsetting greenhouse gas emissions. Through
providing shade, wind breaks, and evapotranspiration, trees and other types of vegetation can also help
reduce energy demands and abate the heat generating effect that cities have on runoff to streams and
the climate.
Objective:
Preserve and enhance the natural beauty of the landscape by encouraging the maximum retention of
natural hillside topographic features such as open drainage ways, slope ridgelines, rock outcroppings,
vistas from and of the hillsides, trees, and other natural plant formations in order to retain the sense of
identity and image that the hillside areas now impart to Glenwood and Springfield.
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Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Protect hillsides, as defined in the Springfield Development Code, from degradation during
development.
o Balance hillside development with conserving and promoting public health, safety,
convenience, and general welfare by mimicking the pre‐development hydrologic regime
and managing soil stability incurred in the adjustment of the topography to meet
development needs.
o Use the best accepted design, architecture, landscape architecture, and civil engineering
principals to preserve, enhance, and promote the existing and future appearance and
resources of hillside areas.
o Collaborate with property owners and private developers to preserve the viewshed and
natural value of hillsides by recording conservation easements, soliciting voluntary land
donation or acquisition through land trusts and other non‐profit environmental
organizations, or utilizing conservation easements to restrict development on portions
of particular hillside areas.
Parks
Parks that are safe, attractive, and well‐maintained increase the value of nearby development. They
also provide economic benefits to homeowners, local governments, and developers. Parks can also
support ecological functions by regulating ambient temperatures, filtering air, reducing noise,
sequestering carbon, and attenuating stormwater runoff. Further, parks create opportunities for people
to gather formally or informally to pursue recreation, leisure, and social activities. Living close to parks
and other recreation facilities stimulates higher physical activity levels, greater time spent outdoors, and
an elevated sense of wellbeing for both adults and youth, and promotes citizens’ connection to and
sense of ownership and pride in their community.
Glenwood has a long history of providing park and recreation opportunities. James Park was dedicated
in Glenwood as the first park in the Willamalane Park and Recreation District (Willamalane) soon after
the District’s formation in the 1940’s. However, it is generally recognized that as development and
population density increases, additional parks are needed, especially in the Glenwood Riverfront, as
identified in the existing Glenwood Refinement Plan, the Willamalane Park and Recreation
Comprehensive Plan, and the Glenwood Specific Area Plan. The Glenwood Riverfront provides a
significant opportunity to meet the parkland need for existing and future residents and workers in
Glenwood—as well as the public at large—as Glenwood redevelops. Phase 1 acknowledges parks as an
amenity, a critical piece of urban infrastructure, and an opportunity to enhance natural resources and
stormwater management and have a positive financial effect on nearby property values.
This Plan includes policies to ensure that the redevelopment of the Glenwood Riverfront into a
significant, new mixed‐use neighborhood will be supported and enhanced by the presence of and access
to nearby parks and open space. It is important to provide parks that will make the Glenwood area
attractive to families with young children, to the aging population, and to other segments of
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Springfield’s existing and future population. The policies in this Plan were developed in collaboration
with Willamalane Park and Recreation District staff and are supported by research findings on the value,
design, and use of neighborhood urban parks in the context of high‐density mixed‐use development.
For instance, parks recommendations take into consideration the community’s prioritization of the most
needed outdoor recreation features listed in Willamalane’s 2011 Draft CNA for the update to their Park
and Recreation Comprehensive Plan, including outdoor water playgrounds and riverfront access points
(tied for first) and community gardens (ranked second).
The Plan acknowledges that parks are not just highly desirable and essential amenities, but are also
critical urban infrastructure. Well‐designed and located parks can also provide multi‐functional spaces
where opportunities to enhance natural resources and stormwater management can occur. Setting
aside land for parks will thus accommodate particular infrastructure development —such as stormwater
management—in the public realm, thus relieving the need to provide such facilities on the development
site. To achieve these ends, Plan policies require designation of sufficient parkland acreage to
accompany future residential mixed‐use development, development of neighborhood urban park
blocks, and development of a linear park with a multi‐use path along the Glenwood Riverfront to be
incorporated into redevelopment plans.
Neighborhood Urban Park Blocks
Research on transit‐oriented development has revealed that a primary driver of resident satisfaction
with their dense, built environment is access to high quality parks and other forms of open space that
provide visual and physical relief from the built environment. The Willamalane Park and Recreation
Comprehensive Plan specifically identifies the need for park and recreation facilities in coordination with
increased residential density and nodal development in the Glenwood Riverfront. The 2011 draft
Community Needs Assessment (CNA) associated with an update to the Willamalane plan mentions that
the development of close‐to‐home neighborhood parks was identified as the third (out of seven) most
important projects for Springfield. In addition, Springfield’s Residential Land and Housing Needs
Analysis directs the designation of at least seven gross acres of high‐density residential land for
public/semi‐public uses to support a minimum of 21 needed gross acres of land designated for high‐
density residential uses in the Glenwood Riverfront. This public/semi‐public land allocation will provide
public open space for the higher density development and regional/metropolitan open space needs, as
well as any needed public/semi‐public facilities, including, but not limited to, local and state government
facilities, schools, hospitals, and non‐profit organizations.
Neighborhood urban park blocks in the Franklin Riverfront are intended to make the economic, social,
health, and environmental benefits of neighborhood parks available for residents and workers of
surrounding mixed‐use development, as well as the general public. The park blocks also aim to create a
complementary situation where residents, employees, and visitors have access to natural light and
green space, and, in turn, the park space is activated by nearby residents and commercial activities,
adding vitality, excitement, and safety to such spaces. The park blocks, which are bordered by north‐
south streets are essential for providing continuous physical and visual connections from Franklin
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Boulevard to the Willamette River, and they are a key component in helping to develop district identity,
serving as a recognizable centerpiece of the neighborhood, and a focus for activities. In fact,
Willamalane’s 2011 Draft CNA for the update to their Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan states
that parks that have ample street frontage and good visibility tend to be more heavily used and suffer
less abuse and vandalism than parks that are ‘hidden’ by development. The park blocks will be an
attractor for visitors and will provide usable recreational spaces for leisure activities and gatherings that
may relieve user pressure from the more sensitive natural area along the river. Furthermore, and
because of the Franklin Riverfront’s terrain, the park blocks provide options for stormwater
management and opportunities to raise public awareness about the relationship between stormwater
management and natural resource protection. Due to design factors associated with achieving this
array of functions and values within the park blocks, a minimum width of 150 feet will be required for
each park block.
Objective:
Provide centrally located and adequate public park blocks to serve residents of High‐Density Residential
Mixed‐Use development in the Franklin Riverfront and the general public, as an essential quality of life
attribute that provides a visual and physical connection between Franklin Boulevard and the Willamette
River and that also may be used for stormwater management.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Collaborate with Willamalane, property owners, and private developers to locate park blocks
extending north from Franklin Boulevard’s access lanes to the riverfront street between the
northern extension of Henderson Avenue and McVay Highway, as conceptually depicted in
Figure 11.
o Size the park blocks to compatibly meet recreation, pedestrian connectivity, and
stormwater management needs, at a minimum 150 feet wide from face of curb to face
of curb.
o Consider park user safety when designing stormwater management facilities in the park
blocks.
o Balance the space and configuration needed for functional, attractive, and educational
stormwater management facilities with the space and configuration needed for
functional, attractive, and educational active and passive park space.
• Partner with Willamalane to ensure that the park blocks are designed to be safe, attractive,
comfortable, and convenient to access for a wide range of potential users; to meet a variety of
active and passive recreational needs throughout the year; and to be adaptable to changing
needs and uses of surrounding buildings, as conceptually depicted in Figures 12, 13, and 14.
o Provide appropriate pedestrian circulation to, through, and around these public open
spaces, including, but not limited to, walkways, pathways, and sidewalks buffered from
vehicular traffic.
o Create unique identities for public open space areas including, but not limited to,
featuring distinctive design elements in seating, lighting, paving, interpretive kiosks, and
public art.
Comment [mem1]: For comparison purposes,
Eugene’s park blocks are about 200 ft. wide and
Portland’s are closer to 260 ft wide. Allegheney –
min 100’ for density (see p.62). Crandall Arambula
proposed ‘half block’ park blocks for Glenwood, so
we should plan the number based on half of what is
finally decided on as the range of developed block
lengths (currently proposed at 250ft‐350ft).
Willamalane has stated emphatically that if the
width is reduced from 150, the spaces will not work
well as public parks.
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o Utilize a combination of maintenance friendly hard‐surfaced areas, landscaping, and
vegetation that is adapted for survival and growth in the Eugene‐Springfield area and/or
where required, listed in the Springfield EDSPM.
o Provide areas to congregate and socialize formally and informally by utilizing amenities
including, but not limited to, park furniture, picnic tables, benches, seating areas,
restroom and maintenance facilities, and opportunities to accommodate outdoor
entertainment, public gatherings, and exhibitions/display areas.
o Consider accommodating additional outdoor seating areas for café patrons along the
park blocks street frontage and/or food kiosks or pushcarts within the park blocks.
o Provide active recreational opportunities for exercise or informal, unstructured, non‐
organized recreation activities, including, but not limited to, informal play areas for
outdoor games and pet and children’s play areas.
o Provide passive recreational opportunities for picnicking; strolling and viewing; sitting,
reading, and passive games.
o Consider establishing community garden space.
Riverfront Linear Park
The Willamalane Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan identifies a need for outdoor recreational
facilities in Glenwood, including a multiuse riverfront park and a multiuse path/linear park along the
Willamette River. Linear parks provide public access to trail‐oriented activities, which may include
walking, running, bicycling, and skating, and they also may provide neighborhood recreation facilities
where adequate space is available. Another key component of linear parks is a corridor of open space
planned for environmental or scenic protection. A linear park that provides tree cover, wildlife habitat,
and riparian buffers can reduce stormwater runoff and the potential for localized and riverine flooding,
protect water quality, link habitat fragments, and preserve biological diversity along watercourses.
This Plan envisions a continuous linear park along the Glenwood Riverfront, from the Interstate‐5
bridges to the southern tip of Springfield’s Urban Growth Boundary, as conceptually depicted in Figure
11. In most places its width will approximately coincide with the 75‐foot wide Riparian and Willamette
Greenway Setback area. In the Franklin Riverfront, where there is greater distance between the river
and the proposed street grid, the linear park may be as wide as approximately 150 feet from top of
bank. The proposed multi‐use path passing through the linear park will be a critical link in the regional
path system connecting Eugene, Springfield, and, eventually, the Howard Buford Recreation Area and
Mount Pisgah. The alignment of the linear park along the proposed east‐west Riverfront Street is
intended to bring high visibility and public access to the park. Willamalane’s 2011 Draft CNA for the
update to their Park and Recreation Comprehensive Plan states that parks that have ample street
frontage and good visibility tend to be more heavily used and suffer less abuse and vandalism than parks
that are ‘hidden’ by development.
Attachment 1-11
Open Space Chapter Draft 6 May 26, 2011
Page 12 of 15
Objective:
Establish a linear park with a multi‐use path along the Willamette River in the Glenwood Riverfront that
is sensitive to riparian areas, wetlands, and scenic values and appropriate in size and type for the
surrounding urban environment in order to: bring people and activity to the riverfront; augment the
existing natural and recreational Willamette River open space corridor in the region; promote tourism;
and enable recreational/educational appreciation of Glenwood’s natural resources and open
space/scenic areas.
Policies and Implementation Strategies:
• Collaborate with Willamalane and others as appropriate to develop river edge variety along the
linear park corridor, as conceptually depicted in Figures 11 and 15, and protect lands within the
concurrent Riparian and Willamette Greenway Setback area while integrating a variety of
passive recreation spaces with abutting natural resources and associated riparian protection and
enhancement measures and stormwater management features.
o Provide appropriate bicycle and pedestrian circulation, including pedestrian paths and a
multi‐use path, to and through public open space areas for a wide range of potential
users.
o Create scenic river overlooks and viewpoints with safe public access that include
clearings and long views through the concurrent Riparian and Willamette Greenway
Setback areas in the vicinity of the intersection of the north‐south streets and the park
blocks with the riverfront street in the Franklin Riverfront and no more than one‐half
mile apart in the McVay Riverfront. Provide amenities including, but not limited to,
benches and seating areas along the multi‐use path where appropriate.
o Create multiple viewsheds through the riparian area at various elevations by utilizing a
mix of understory and canopy vegetation, including the clustering of trees, to discourage
illegal activities and to visually connect the development areas with the Willamette
River and the remainder of Springfield.
o Require development and/or redevelopment to avoid restricting access to the
Riverfront Linear Park and to avoid or minimize obstruction of scenic views of the
Willamette River corridor.
o Provide opportunities for passive recreation including, but not limited to, picnicking,
sitting, reading, and wildlife viewing by utilizing features such as park furniture, picnic
tables, benches, seating areas, and restroom facilities.
o Create unique identities for the public open space including, but not limited to featuring
distinctive design elements in seating, lighting, paving, interpretive kiosks, and public
art.
o Establish an educational component for the linear park to include the natural and
cultural history of the Glenwood Riverfront.
o Utilize a combination of hard‐surfaced areas, landscaping, and natural vegetation that is
adapted for survival and growth in the Eugene‐Springfield area and is maintenance
friendly.
Attachment 1-12
Open Space Chapter Draft 6 May 26, 2011
Page 13 of 15
o Utilize riverbank stabilization strategies that enhance the river and riverbank
ecosystems. Ensure that riverbank plantings provide habitat value while preserving
views.
o Integrate a variety of vegetation, above and below the top of bank, which supports the
riverbank and riverbank habitats.
o Utilize riparian setback area for stormwater management and water quality treatment,
as described in the Stormwater Quality Management section of this Chapter.
Stormwater Quality Management
Springfield’s Stormwater Management System includes the structures, facilities, and practices utilized by
the City and/or a development to control and manage the quantity and quality of groundwater
discharges and surface water run‐off, including stormwater run‐off, non‐storm generated run‐off, and
floodwaters. Rather than simply piping collected storm water from developed areas and discharging it
directly into the Willamette River, the most cost‐effective strategies for managing the quality of the
runoff are to direct runoff through vegetative treatment approaches that are incorporated into the
urban landscape. Considering the opportunities for using public open space for achieving stormwater
quality, this Chapter discusses Stormwater Quality Management while the Public Facilities and Services
Chapter discusses Stormwater Collection and Conveyance Management.
The purpose of stormwater quality management is to mitigate the negative effects of urbanization
runoff on the hydrologic cycle. Urbanization of a watershed increases pollutants such as oil, litter, silt
from construction, and many types of heavy metals and chemicals. These combined pollutants can have
severe impacts on receiving waters for vegetation and wildlife. In addition, there are further negative
impacts on water quality such as increased water temperature, total volume of runoff, and how quickly
that runoff reaches the receiving waters. Increases in flow and volume also result in increased erosion
and can result in new or increased downstream localized and riverine flooding.
Through the Federal Clean Water Act, there are several requirements that must be met by
municipalities for stormwater runoff within their boundaries. The Oregon Department of Environmental
Quality administers these requirements using a federal Municipal Separate Stormwater System (MS4)
Permit issued to Springfield. This Permit allows Springfield to discharge runoff from the public
stormwater system to both the McKenzie and Willamette Rivers. As a result of these requirements, all
new and redevelopment sites must address Springfield’s stormwater requirements for volume control,
flow duration, and on‐site water quality, as described in the adopted stormwater management policy
contained in Springfield’s Stormwater Management Plan. As development and redevelopment occur,
developers will be required to consider and implement all appropriate on‐site opportunities and options
to minimize localized flooding, pollution, and increases in flow to downstream receiving waters. Where
these objectives are not attainable, mitigation based upon an analysis of the cumulative drainage
impacts of the development on affected downstream owners will be required. One way of achieving
these policy objectives is by applying Low Impact Development Approaches (LIDA).
Attachment 1-13
Open Space Chapter Draft 6 May 26, 2011
Page 14 of 15
LIDA includes innovative stormwater management approaches with a basic principle that is modeled
after nature: manage stormwater runoff on‐site, at its source, with the goal of mimicking
predevelopment hydrology by using design techniques that infiltrate, filter, store, evaporate, and detain
runoff. The result is a hydrologically functional landscape that generates less surface runoff, less
pollution, less erosion, and maintains existing hydrology of natural areas and rivers. LIDA has numerous
benefits and advantages over conventional stormwater management approaches by directing
stormwater towards small‐scale systems that are dispersed throughout the site with the purpose of
managing water in an evenly distributed manner. Opportunities to apply LIDA principles and practices
are plentiful since any feature of the urban landscape including not only open space, but also rooftops,
streetscapes, surface parking lots, sidewalks, and medians can be modified to control runoff and/or
reduce the introduction of pollution. These distributed systems also allow for downsizing or elimination
of stormwater ponds, curbs and gutters, and a reduction of piping, thereby saving on infrastructure and
storm conveyance costs. The technologies are tested, proven, and have been used successfully for
many years in other parts of the Eugene‐Springfield area, as well as in dense, urban locations in the
United States such as Seattle, Portland and Chicago and numerous locations in Europe and Asia.
The Glenwood Riverfront is well suited to this approach to stormwater management. The soils in the
area tend to have a high infiltration capacity and this has allowed Glenwood to develop to its current
state without any large‐scale stormwater infrastructure being necessary. Installing a traditional
stormwater system consisting of above and below ground conveyance that would discharge into the
Willamette River would be prohibitively expensive. Such a traditional system also requires a large
footprint of land that could be utilized for additional development, and once installed, is expensive and
difficult to maintain for both function and pollution reduction. LIDAs are usually fully integrated into
required landscaping and setback areas and as such do not normally require any additional maintenance
above/beyond the existing requirements for a developed area.
Objective:
Use LIDA stormwater elements to replicate the hydrologic cycle processes that have been lost in urban
areas to manage stormwater discharges; integrate site development with the public infrastructure,
transportation facilities, proposed park blocks, Riparian and Willamette Greenway Setback area; and
integrate Springfield’s Stormwater Management Plan standards with the anticipated high intensity
development levels in the Glenwood Riverfront.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Ensure adequate Stormwater Quality Management planning, emphasizing the natural
hydrologic process that minimizes negative impacts on water quality, flow volumes, duration,
and quantity resulting from development and redevelopment.
o Capture the first one inch of rainfall in a 24‐hour period through the use of on‐site LIDA
techniques.
o Utilize techniques that slow and retain stormwater runoff on‐site, in order to reduce
peak storm flows.
Attachment 1-14
Open Space Chapter Draft 6 May 26, 2011
Page 15 of 15
o Reduce impervious surfaces by using techniques including, but not limited to,
permeable surfaces, green roofs, and narrow streets.
o Utilize techniques for filtering contaminants from surface runoff before it enters the
Willamette River to protect and enhance water quality.
o Utilize the Riparian Setback for stormwater filtering, groundwater recharge, and
overland sheet flows, where possible.
o Utilize planting standards found in the Springfield EDSPM for vegetated treatment and
riparian areas.
o Integrate innovative stormwater management systems into the site design by using
green roofs, the incorporation of pervious surfaces, and other systems that reuse
stormwater to irrigate landscape plantings.
o Utilize portions of the park block areas for treatment of stormwater runoff from
adjacent streets and conveyance of treated stormwater to management and/or water
quality treatment areas.
o Initiate a Stormwater Capital Improvement Plan project for improving stormwater
capacity and riparian habitat along selected existing sloughs and waterways in the
Glenwood Riverfront.
o Provide requirements and incentives for green infrastructure for stormwater
management including, but not limited to: legalizing all types of green infrastructure,
particularly for downspout disconnection and rainwater harvesting through building
code policies or amendments; and establishing payment‐in‐lieu for developing off‐site
and nearby neighborhood or semi‐regional stormwater management facilities.
Attachment 1-15
S A ST
S 2ND STE 19TH AVE
HARBOR DRMAIN ST
GLENWOOD BLVDMILL
STJUDKINS R
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E 17TH AVE
B ST
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A ST
INLAND WAYMISSISSIPPI AVENE
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T PIONEER PARKWAY WE 21ST AVESENECA STBROOKLYN AVEMcVAY HWYCONCORD AVELEXINGTON AVEKREMONT AVE
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Springfield Public Works Dept., January 2011
NORTH
There are no warranties that accompany this product. Usersassume all responsibility for any loss or damage arising fromany error, omission, or positional inaccuracy of this product.
0 1/4 1/2 Mile1/8
GLENWOOD RIVERFRONT
Attachment 1-16
17TH AVE
15TH AVE
GLENWOOD BLVDHENDERSON AVEMISSISSIPPI AVELEXINGTON AVECONCORD AVEBROOKLYN AVENU
G
G
E
T
W
A
Y McVAY HWY
19TH AVE
21ST AVE
22ND AVE
FRANKLIN BLVD
SENECA AVE14TH AVE
Phase 1: Wetlands and WaterQuality Limited Watercourses
Significant Wetlandsidentified in 2010 LWI
Franklin Riverfront
Water Quality Limited Waterways
McVay Riverfront
Attachment 1-17
Riparian Trees and Shrubs
Dense Vegetation
(Herbaceous, Woody, etc.)
75’
FIGURE 3 Goal 5 Water Quality Limited Waterways (WQLW) & Wetland Setbacks
Existing WQLW Riparian Setback Along River
Ordinary Low Water
Delineated Wetland Boundary
Top of Bank
50’Existing WQLW Riparian
Setback Along Other Listed
Watercourses
25’
Existing Wetland Setback
Not to Scale
Ordinary High Water
Attachment 1-18
Riparian Trees and Shrubs
Dense Vegetation
(Herbaceous, Woody, etc.)
75’
150’*
FIGURE 4 Goal 15 Greenway Boundary & Setback Line
Greenway Boundary (from ordinary low water)
Existing WQLW Riparian Setback concurrent
with proposed Greenway Setback Line
Existing
Greenway
Setback Line**Ordinary Low Water
Delineated Wetland Boundary
Top of Bank
Not to Scale
* at a minimum
**20’ - 35’ building setback TOB (current GRP)
Low Water to Top of Bank
Ordinary High Water
Attachment 1-19
HERBS, GRASSES, AND FORBS
Riverbank
Plant Transect AQUATIC
TREES
SHRUBS
HERBS, GRASSES, AND FORBS
UPPER SHOREU
L LOWER SHORE
U
L
A
(ORDINARY HIGH WATER)
(LOWEST LEVEL OF PERSISTENTWOODY VEGETATION)
(10 YR. FLOOD EL.)
(ORDINARY LOW WATER)
.)(GENERALLY TOP OF BANK
INDICATOR STATUS LEGEND
OBL Obligate Wetland (almost always occur in wetlands)FACW Faculative Wetland (usually occur n wetlands)FAC Faculative (equally likely to occur in wetlands or non-wetlands)FACU Faculative Upland (usually occur in non-wetlands)UPL, NOL Upland, Not Listed (almost always occur in non-wetlands)NI No Indicator (insufficient information available or plant is widely tolerant)
(AQUATIC VEGETATION)
(Persistent Woody Vegetation)
A AQUATIC
Plant speices and density as determind by the Springfield Engineering Design Standards and
Procedures Manual.
RIPARIAN AND WETLAND VEGETATION
FIGURE B
Not to Scale
Figure 5
Attachment 1-20
75’ RipaRian Setback
tRanSition point
StoRmwateR
pipe in bank
cut pipe to
match Slope
of bank
eStabliSh top of bank by SuRvey
pRioR to ReStoRation to fix 75’
Setback line
native bouldeRS aS
eneRgy diSSipatoRS
vegetated RiveR Rock mateRial
emeRgent wetland
oRdinaRy high wateR line
below planting
ReStoRation ZoneS
tRanSition Zone
0’ - 20’
uppeR ShoRe
25’ - 45’
Zone of
peRSiStent woody
vegetation and
StoRmwateR
management Zone
30’ - 50’
development Zone
poSSible example of a ReStoRation plan foR RipaRian
Setback planting and wateR Quality Zone
not to Scale: Shown foR illuStRation only, exaggeRated veRtical Scale
level of peRSiStent woody
vegetation
Remove uRbaniZed oR degRaded
mateRial within RipaRian aRea
Attachment 1-21
Willamette Riverbank Design Notebook May 2001
GreenWorks, PC • ClearWater West • Fishman Environmental Services • Inter-Fluve • KPFF Consulting Page 69
Framing Views
Perspective G.15
GENERAL
TREES TO FRAME VIEWS
LOWER GROWING RIPARIAN
VEGETATION
FRAME AND PROTECT SIGNIFICANT
VIEWS OF RIVER AND OTHER FEATURES
Attachment 1-22
Willamette Riverbank Design Notebook May 2001
GreenWorks, PC • ClearWater West • Fishman Environmental Services • Inter-Fluve • KPFF Consulting Page 70
Wide-Bodied Swales
Section/Perspective G.16
GENERAL
RIPARIAN SHRUBS AND TREES
OVERA
L
L
S
L
O
P
E
1
0
%
NATIVE RIPARIAN GRASSES,
SEDGES, AND FORBS IN SWALES
Attachment 1-23
Willamette Riverbank Design Notebook May 2001
GreenWorks, PC • ClearWater West • Fishman Environmental Services • Inter-Fluve • KPFF Consulting Page 71
RIPARIAN SHRUBS AND TREES
CHECK DAMS AS NECESSARY
SWALE:
1/2% - 1% MAXIMUM
Longitudinal
Biofiltration Swale
Perspective G.17
GENERAL
Attachment 1-24
17TH AVE
15TH AVE
GLENWOOD BLVDHENDERSON AVEMISSISSIPPI AVELEXINGTON AVECONCORD AVEBROOKLYN AVENU
G
G
E
T
W
A
Y McVAY HWY
19TH AVE
21ST AVE
22ND AVE
FRANKLIN BLVD
SENECA AVE14TH AVE
McVay Riverfront
Franklin Riverfront
Areas with > 15% slope
Parcels having over 30% of totalarea exceeding 15% slope
Terrain model derived from 2009 LiDAR data
Phase 1: Hillside Parcels
Attachment 1-25
17TH AVE
15TH AVE
GLENWOOD BLVDHENDERSON AVEMISSISSIPPI AVELEXINGTON AVECONCORD AVEBROOKLYN AVENU
G
G
E
T
W
A
Y McVAY HWY
19TH AVE
21ST AVE
22ND AVE
FRANKLIN BLVD
SENECA AVE14TH AVE
McVay Riverfront
Franklin Riverfront
Note: extent varies between a 75’ riparian setback,
the 150’ Willamette Greenway boundary, and theproposed riverfront street in the Franklin Riverfront.
Proposed Riverfront Linear Park
Proposed Park Blocks
Proposed Park Blocks
and Riverfront Linear Park
Attachment 1-26
Figure 12 Attachment 1-27
Figure 13 Attachment 1-28
Figure 14 Attachment 1-29
Figure 15 Attachment 1-30
Housing and Economic Development Chapter Draft 1 May 23, 2011
Page 1 of 13
Introduction
Housing
Statewide Planning Goal 10, Housing, requires Springfield to provide an adequate land base to
accommodate a full range of choice in housing type, density, cost, and location throughout the City to
meet the community’s housing needs. Springfield has historically addressed this requirement through
its residential land use designations updated periodically through the Eugene‐Springfield Metropolitan
Area General (Metro) Plan. In 2007, the Oregon Legislature required Eugene and Springfield to establish
separate urban growth boundaries (UGB) that included separate 20 year residential lands inventories for
each city. In response to House Bill 3337, Springfield conducted a study to determine the City’s housing
needs for 2010‐2030 and to evaluate the sufficiency of land available for residential uses within
Springfield’s UGB. The adopted study, the Springfield Residential Land and Housing Needs Analysis
(RLHNA) are the basis upon which the adopted Springfield 2030 Residential Land Use and Housing
Element were developed.
As described in the Land Use Chapter, the adopted Springfield RLHNA identified a deficit of 28 gross
acres for high‐density residential uses and associated public/semi‐public land intended to provide public
open space for the higher density development, as well as any needed supporting public facilities. To
address this deficit, Implementation Action 2.1 in the Springfield 2030 Residential Land Use and Housing
Element directs the City Council to re‐designate at least 28 additional gross buildable acres as part of
Glenwood Phase I (seven acres of which are intended to provide public open space for the higher
density development, as well as any needed supporting public facilities). Implementation Action 2.2
directs Springfield to support development of additional high‐density residential uses adjacent to
commercial and employment areas. The Land Use Chapter therefore directs the designation of 33.3
gross acres with a minimum density of 50 net dwelling units per acre in the Glenwood Riverfront as
Residential Mixed‐Use to provide housing choice for Springfield residents and ensure that Springfield’s
high‐density housing needs can be met through annexation and redevelopment, consistent with
Springfield’s adopted housing policies. The Housing Section of this Chapter contains additional policies
intended to: enhance the progress of high‐density residential development; facilitate the development
neighborhood where residents from a range of economic levels, household sizes, and ages can choose
to live; address the impact of redevelopment on existing manufactured home park residents; and
support the preservation, rehabilitation, and maintenance of existing housing to safe and sanitary
standards over the Plan period.
Economic Development
Springfield is a business‐oriented city. The City is undergoing revitalization, with on‐going
redevelopment efforts in Downtown and Glenwood, and the recent opening of the hospital at
RiverBend. The City’s vision for economic growth over the next 20 years, as articulated in the adopted
Springfield Commercial and Industrial Buildable Lands Inventory, Economic Opportunities Analysis, and
Economic Development Objectives and Implementation Strategies (CIBL), combines sustaining existing
businesses and helping them expand and embracing a broad variety of new opportunities for growth.
Comment [mem1]: Update when know adoption outcome.
Comment [mem2]: Update when know adoption outcome.
Comment [mem3]: Update when Planning Commission & City Council discuss minimum
density and CAC issues.
Attachment 2-1
Housing and Economic Development Chapter Draft 1 May 23, 2011
Page 2 of 13
The CIBL, which was intended to guide planning studies and land use actions in Springfield, including the
Glenwood Refinement Plan, summarizes Springfield’s economic development strategy as follows:
• Facilitate the redevelopment of Downtown Springfield and Glenwood through strategic
infrastructure and other investments from programs such as urban renewal and planning for
redevelopment.
• Provide sites with a variety of site characteristics to meet both commercial and industrial
economic opportunities, including providing sites that are available for relatively fast
development. This includes providing large sites for major employers.
• Use land within the existing urban growth boundary efficiently, through promoting
redevelopment, infill development, and dense development in nodal areas. The study assumes
that 52% of new employment during the planning period will located on lands that are already
developed.
• Provide infrastructure efficiently and fairly by coordinating capital improvement planning with
economic development planning.
• Support and assist existing businesses within Springfield by assessing what help businesses
need and developing programs to respond to business needs.
• Attract and develop new businesses, especially those related to regional business clusters. The
City would like to build on the developing health care cluster, promote development of high‐
tech businesses, and attract sustainable businesses.
• Maintain flexibility in planning through providing efficient planning services and developing
flexible planning policies to respond to the changing needs of businesses.
The CIBL also articulates the types of industries that Springfield wants to attract as having the following
attributes: high‐wage, stable jobs with benefits; jobs requiring skilled and unskilled labor; employers in a
range of industries that will contribute to a diverse economy; and industries that are comparable with
Springfield’s community values. Springfield’s ‘target industries’ include: medical services; services for
seniors; small scale manufacturing; call centers; back‐office functions; tourism; specialty food
processing; high‐tech; professional and technical services; green businesses; corporate headquarters;
and services for residents. Springfield’s attributes that may attract these types of firms are: proximity to
Interstate‐5, high quality of life, proximity to the University of Oregon, the presence of the RiverBend
campus, positive business climate, availability of skilled and semi‐skilled labor, and proximity to indoor
and outdoor recreational opportunities.
The CIBL added that “consistent with City Council policies, the areas that are expected to have the most
redevelopment in the plan period are in Glenwood, especially along the Willamette Riverfront and
Franklin/McVay corridor1, and the Downtown Urban Renewal District.” The proposed Employment
1 The terminology used in the CIBL to describe the area expected to have the most redevelopment in the plan period is different
from the terminology used in this Plan to describe the same geographic area of Glenwood. In this Plan, the term ‘Glenwood
Attachment 2-2
Housing and Economic Development Chapter Draft 1 May 23, 2011
Page 3 of 13
Mixed‐Use, Office Mixed‐Use, and Commercial Mixed‐Use refinement plan designations and zoning
described in the Land Use Chapter respond accordingly. However, meeting Statewide Planning Goal 9,
Economic Development, requires not only providing an adequate land supply to provide for an adequate
20‐year supply of sites of suitable sizes, types, locations, and service levels for a variety of industrial
uses, but also policies regarding opportunities for a variety of economic activities vital to the health,
welfare, and prosperity of citizens. The Economic Development section of this Chapter addresses the
latter half of this requirement.
Housing
As discussed in the Land Use Chapter, land in the core of the Glenwood Riverfront is intended for the
development of an urban high‐density residential mixed‐use neighborhood that:
• capitalizes on the proximity of transit stations serving a high frequency transit corridor; existing
and future job centers; and Springfield’s and Eugene’s downtowns
• takes advantage of riverfront views and unique development opportunities;
• provides additional and diverse housing choices for area residents;
• Leverages the high level of public investment in infrastructure that has occurred or is planned in
the Glenwood Riverfront; and
• helps meet an identified deficiency in high density residential land in Springfield.
Achieving the community vision for this neighborhood also requires an auto, pedestrian, and bicycle
circulation pattern and open space framework that supports high‐density residential mixed‐use
development, as described in the Transportation and Open Space Chapters. Implementation of the
proposed streets and open space amenities is intended to create contiguous public realm that
complements, supports, and focuses the future residential mixed‐use activities in the Glenwood
Riverfront; these mixed uses and the public realm can, over time, mature into a quality riverfront
neighborhood.
New Housing Development
The Residential Mixed‐Use designation in the Glenwood Riverfront, coupled with the proximity of that
area to transit stations serving a high frequency transit corridor, existing and future job centers,
riverfront views, and unique development opportunities, provides an outstanding
environment to stimulate residential development interest in this area. Acknowledging that converting
interest into action requires strong public/private partnerships, the Glenwood Urban Renewal Plan
authorizes the Springfield Economic Development Agency (SEDA) to assist private, non‐profit, and public
developers in acquiring land and developing new housing and related infrastructure in the Glenwood
Riverfront.
Riverfront’ is used to describe Glenwood Phase I which includes approximately three miles of Willamette River frontage and is
comprised of land on either side of Franklin Boulevard and McVay Highway extending from the I‐5 Bridge to Springfield’s south
urban growth boundary in Glenwood, as depicted in Figure 1.
Attachment 2-3
Housing and Economic Development Chapter Draft 1 May 23, 2011
Page 4 of 13
Sustainable neighborhoods must be inclusive and provide housing and employment opportunities for
people of all races, ethnicities, ages, disability status, and income levels. Due to the Glenwood
Riverfront’s unique and desirable central location in the region, natural amenities, and access to
employers and institutions, housing developed in the Residential Mixed‐Use area may be out of reach
for low‐ and moderate‐income persons2 unless proactive measures, implemented through the policies
and implementation strategies below, are taken to facilitate the development of new affordable
housing3 in this area. These housing units would also provide an opportunity for potentially displaced
Glenwood residents to continue to live in affordable dwellings located in a desirable riverfront setting
near their current neighbors and neighborhoods.
Transportation is the second highest household cost behind shelter, so reducing transportation costs,
especially for low‐ and moderate‐income families, frees up income for housing and other essential
household expenses, provides affordable access to jobs, and offers convenience if services cluster
nearby in mixed‐use areas. Requiring housing developers to provide parking onsite or nearby increases
development costs and makes the resulting housing less affordable. To help encourage reduced vehicle
usage and provide for more choice on housing costs, this section also includes policy direction to
evaluate and develop parking standards, in coordination with the policy direction included in the
Transportation Chapter, that provide sufficient parking to meet demand while supporting Plan goals for
housing and multi‐modal transportation.
Objective:
Facilitate the development of new high‐density housing units, including affordable housing units, that
enable residents from a wide range of economic levels, household sizes, and ages to live in the
Glenwood Riverfront.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Provide financial incentives for the development of new high‐density housing units, including
affordable housing units, through SEDA’s tax increment‐funded programs, as funding becomes
available.
o Pursue opportunities to collaborate with SEDA to set aside captured tax increment
funds for the development of affordable housing.
o Explore the feasibility of collaborating with SEDA to require the execution of some form
of a ‘Community Benefit Agreement4’ for housing development that receives financial
support from SEDA.
2 Low‐ and moderate‐income persons are defined by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) as those
persons whose household incomes are less than 80% of Area Median Income (AMI). In 2010, 80% of AMI for a four‐person
household in Lane County was $46,000.
3 The cost of housing is generally considered to be affordable when it equals no more than 30% of household income (for
owners, housing cost includes mortgage, principle and interest, property taxes, and insurance; for renters, housing cost
includes rent and utilities). 4 As defined by the Partnership for Working Families, a community benefit agreement is “a project‐specific negotiated
agreement between a developer and a broad community coalition that outlines the project’s contributions to the community
and ensures community support for the project.”
Attachment 2-4
Housing and Economic Development Chapter Draft 1 May 23, 2011
Page 5 of 13
o Explore the feasibility of collaborating with SEDA to require new high‐density housing
units developed with the assistance of SEDA to provide a variety of unit sizes and
occupancy opportunities.
• Provide financial incentives for the development of new high‐density affordable housing units
through local, state, and federally‐funded housing and community development programs, as
annexation occurs and funding becomes available.
o Explore the feasibility requiring new high‐density housing units developed with the
assistance of housing and community development programs to provide a variety of
unit sizes and occupancy opportunities.
o Consider prioritizing housing and community development investments for qualified
housing and community development projects.
o Explore the possibility of partnering with Eugene and Lane County, through the
Intergovernmental Housing Policy Board, to establish a regional housing trust fund5.
o Establish a Vertical Housing Development Zone6.
o Seek opportunities to landbank for affordable housing development.
o Pursue opportunities to incentivize and support future innovative affordable housing
options that may arise over the course of the Plan period.
• Prioritize and offer opportunities for Glenwood residents who qualify for new Springfield‐ and
SEDA‐assisted housing to relocate to such housing units.
• Scope and plan projects to effectively develop and implement programs that provide
development incentives, such as density bonuses, to developers that agree to include
affordable housing in their development mix.
• Evaluate and develop parking standards for inclusion in the Glenwood Riverfront Mixed‐Use
Plan District that: support Plan goals for housing that meets the needs of a range of households
and supports multi‐modal transportation choice; maximize efficient and economical use of the
residential land supply; and provide sufficient parking to meet demand, in conjunction with an
access system that provides balanced travel mode options.
Existing Housing Stock
Manufactured Home Parks
At the time this Plan was prepared, over 60% of Glenwood’s housing stock was comprised of travel
trailers, mobile homes, and other manufactured dwelling units, many of which are located in the
Glenwood Riverfront. Given the age, variety, and quality of these types of units, manufactured home
park owners in the Glenwood Riverfront will face increased pressure to redevelop their land for more
5 Housing trust funds are distinct funds established by city, county, or state governments that receive ongoing dedicated
sources of public funding to support the preservation and production of affordable housing and increase opportunities for
households to access decent affordable homes. Housing trust funds systemically shift affordable housing funding from annual
budget allocations to the commitment of dedicated public revenue.
6 A Vertical Housing Development Zone (VHZ) is an area designated by local jurisdictions to encourage dense, mixed‐use
developments. Eligible projects within a VHZ may receive partial property tax exemptions, which vary based on the number of
‘equalized floors’ in the development, with a maximum property tax exemption of 80% over a 10‐year period. An additional
partial property tax exemption may be given if some or all of the residential housing is for low‐income persons (80 percent of
area median income or below).
Comment [mem4]: Ask Stephanie what the new
term du jour is for this. Kevin mentioned that
‘landbanking’ is no longer an acceptable term according to HUD.
Comment [mem5]: One CAC member suggested re-stating this in Manufactured Home Park
section. To avoid duplication of text, any
suggestions re: placement/wording of this policy?
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valuable mixed uses. Further, most of the manufactured home parks in the Glenwood Riverfront are
served by aging and marginal onsite septic systems. As these systems fail, owners will face considerable
expense to annex and connect to the public wastewater system. These costs may factor into owners’
decisions to close existing manufactured home parks.
Most existing manufactured home parks in the Glenwood Riverfront are now pre‐existing non‐
conforming uses, either by zoning, plan designation, or both. For instance, if a developer came to
Springfield to redevelop a mobile home park consistent with current zoning (prior to Plan adoption),
e.g., an industrial use on a property zoned and designated for that use, the same State regulations and
levels of local assistance discussed above will apply. These mobile homes may remain as pre‐existing
non‐conforming uses until such time the properties are redeveloped.
Objective:
Provide assistance to manufactured home park residents possibly displaced by the redevelopment of
property in the Glenwood Riverfront.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Allow existing residential uses in manufactured home parks to continue under the pre‐existing
non‐conforming use provisions of the Springfield Development Code.
• Rely on State laws and regulations while responding with applicable referrals to available
services addressing the needs of individual manufactured home park tenants.
• Consider providing financial assistance for mandated expenses of relocation or displacement of
residents from potentially closed manufactured home parks through SEDA’s tax increment‐
funded programs, as funding becomes available.
• Explore the feasibility of partnering with a non‐profit or for‐profit entity to acquire land and
develop a new manufactured home park in Springfield for relocating potentially displaced
manufactured home park residents.
Single Dwelling Units
Ten parcels comprising 1.42 acres in the Glenwood Riverfront contain single dwelling units on land that
was zoned and designated for residential uses prior to adoption of this Plan. This Plan designates these
parcels as Employment Mixed‐Use in the event of redevelopment during the Plan period, for the
reasons described in the Land Use Chapter. Until such time, these single dwelling units may remain as
pre‐existing, non‐conforming uses.
A majority of the housing stock in Glenwood is in need of major repair, and the need for rehabilitation,
weatherization, and major system upgrades increases as the housing ages. In the event that emergency
repairs are needed on these single housing units, income‐eligible property owners could be eligible for
Federal housing and community development programs managed by Springfield and other public
agencies. While these programs may change and/or evolve over time, Springfield has made many of
these or similar programs available to the residents of Springfield over the past 30 years and anticipates
continuing to do so, subject to continued Federal funding support. The Emergency Home Repair
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Program provides financial support for urgent home repairs to enhance health, safety, or accessibility,
and the Springfield Home Improvement Program provides financial support for substantial home
repairs.
In 2006, SEDA initiated a tax‐increment funded Glenwood Residential Improvement Program, which is
designed to provide low‐ and very low‐ income Glenwood residents the means to perform major repairs
to their owner‐occupied single family and duplex structures. Qualified homeowners with qualifying
homes on these single unit parcels in Glenwood Phase I are eligible for this program. Further, Federal
housing and community development programs managed by Springfield and tax‐increment funded
programs managed by SEDA may be used to provide financial assistance to income‐qualified property
owners to connect to public infrastructure, such as public wastewater facilities.
In the event these parcels are annexed for emergency health and safety purposes, additional Federal
housing and community development programs provided by the City will be made available to income‐
qualified residents and property owners. These programs currently include: the CHORE Program, which
provides financial assistance towards home and yard maintenance for senior and disabled homeowners;
the Springfield Home Ownership Program, which provides financial support for first‐time homebuyers;
and the Emergency Rental Assistance Program, which provides one‐time emergency assistance to
residents facing eviction for non‐payment of rent.
Objective:
Support the maintenance of safe and sanitary existing single dwelling units in the Glenwood Riverfront.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Allow existing residential uses to continue under the pre‐existing non‐conforming use provisions
of the Springfield Development Code.
• Continue existing programs designed to help improve the housing stock through Federal housing
and community development programs and tax increment funded programs.
Economic Development
Glenwood makes up about seven percent of Springfield’s Urban Growth Boundary and contributes
about nine percent of the jobs in Springfield. An economic development survey performed by
Springfield in 2009 showed locally and regionally significant firms in Glenwood employ nearly 2,000
people in a variety of businesses. With its central location and access to Interstate 5 (I‐5), Glenwood’s
economic activity depends on and relates to activity in the Eugene‐Springfield metropolitan area and to
the larger regional economic base of Lane County and other nearby Willamette Valley counties.
Consequently, Glenwood’s underdeveloped riverfront sites position this area for significant commercial,
mixed‐use, and industrial redevelopment. The key to Glenwood’s redevelopment will emerge through
timely and appropriate responses by Springfield and its urban renewal agency (the Springfield Economic
Development Agency, SEDA) to development challenges; by private sector market responses to
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opportunities emerging in Glenwood; and by the community working together to overcome the many
challenges inherent to the redevelopment process.
Economic development in Glenwood is linked to similar goals, strategies, programs, efforts, and policies
applicable elsewhere in Springfield and its UGB. Springfield’s adopted Economic Development Plan,
Springfield Enterprise Zone, Glenwood Urban Renewal Plan, and CIBL describe Springfield’s general
approach to development, incentives, investments, and strategies. It is anticipated that Springfield will
continue to prioritize future development and redevelopment of the Glenwood Riverfront, including
continued growth of existing business as well as the recruitment of new business, as detailed in the
policies and implementation strategies below. At the same time, there are many advantages and
challenges to development and redevelopment in the Glenwood Riverfront.
Comparative Advantages
The Glenwood Riverfront provides significant comparative advantages over other areas of the region.
These advantages enhance the economic development potential for Springfield and the Eugene‐
Springfield metropolitan area. The following characteristics of the area have already and will continue
to make it a focal point of development and job creation:
+ The Glenwood Riverfront’s circulation network links population centers of Eugene and
Springfield to both one another and to the entire region, and provides quick access to and
within residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational areas. For example: the I‐
5/Glenwood Boulevard interchange serves traffic entering and exiting both Eugene and
Springfield; Franklin Boulevard serves traffic flowing east and west between the two cities; the I‐
5/McVay Highway interchange serves traffic coming and going via I‐5 and Lane Community
College; and lower volume streets with lower traffic volumes serve the internal residential and
industrial areas.
+ Due to their location within the existing circulation network, the Glenwood Riverfront’s primary
transportation intersections, at Glenwood Boulevard/Franklin Boulevard and Franklin
Boulevard/McVay Highway, have been, and will continue to be, the focus of redevelopment and
new development. Both of these intersections provide the most direct links between the major
Eugene and Springfield population centers, regional commercial developments, the Glenwood
Riverfront, and interior industrial sites.
+ Public facilities, utilities, and services are in place, planned for ready availability, or can be
efficiently provided or extended because the Glenwood Riverfront is within the urbanizable area
of Springfield’s UGB. Details outlining the extent of service availability can be found in the
Transportation and Public Facilities and Services Chapters of this Plan. The costs to provide full
urban services in infill areas like the Glenwood Riverfront are generally lower than extending
them out to new development sites on the periphery of the city limits as population in the
metro area increases. Pressure to redevelop will increase for all of the Glenwood Riverfront’s
undeveloped and underdeveloped commercial and industrial sites. The Glenwood Riverfront’s
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central location and anticipated lower cost of providing services gives it a distinct advantage
over other redevelopment areas in the region.
+ The Glenwood Riverfront’s central location provides development and redevelopment
opportunities for local firms seeking relocation or redevelopment needs. It provides
opportunities for further development while still allowing existing business to continue
benefiting from the Eugene‐Springfield Metro area economy. For example, the $34‐million US
Bakery facility was a relocation to Glenwood in 2006 that allowed the bakery's former site to be
developed with the University of Oregon basketball arena and provided major impetus for both
short‐ and long‐term development activities in Springfield and Eugene. This example illustrate
how:
¾ Springfield can facilitate development proposals on tight timelines and on difficult sites,
and yet ensure the development of wanted and needed new and relocated industrial
and commercial facilities;
¾ Development has spurred modest interest in Glenwood industrial sites, opportunities
for new hotel development, and inquiries for possible transitional and long‐term
industrial relocations to the Glenwood Riverfront; and
¾ Glenwood Riverfront development could find sources of substantial tax‐increment funds
for needed public investments. The US Bakery project will provide, on average, about
$400,000 in tax‐increment funds annually during the 20+ years of the Renewal plan.
These investments will be the basis of and long‐term support for existing and future
commercial and industrial development; for hotel, tourism, and conference center
projects; and for potential employment uses planned in the Glenwood Riverfront.
+ The planned expansion of nearby commercial uses in Springfield’s Downtown and Eugene’s
Walnut Station serve a broad range of residential development for not only permanent
residents with low, moderate, and high incomes but also relatively transient student
populations. Proposed diversified Glenwood Riverfront development would benefit from,
enhance, and link these focal points with complementary commercial, office, industrial, and
hotel activities for a similar range of Glenwood Riverfront residents who would rely
predominantly on nearby ground‐floor retail, restaurant uses, and consumer services.
+ The Glenwood Riverfront currently lacks hotels, apartments, and condominiums despite its
proximity to exits off I‐5, the University of Oregon and Lane Community College campuses, and
good views along the Willamette River. This will likely change based upon recent interest
regarding hospitality and university‐related residential and athletic facilities. The amenities
unique to the Glenwood Riverfront (Willamette River vistas, ease of access to I‐5, and vicinity to
University functions and Downtowns in Springfield and Eugene) position the area for future
hospitality and residential facility‐driven development. These new facilities would be key assets
supporting University of Oregon and Lane Community College activities with housing for
students, faculty, and staff. Additionally, these facilities could augment many light industrial
and office headquarters firms that could develop along the riverfront areas with proximate
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housing for employees as well as local and traveling executives. All of these uses often require
conference, restaurant facilities, and other supportive services to be located close by.
Development Constraints
While the opportunities are unique and advantages in the Glenwood Riverfront are desirable, they are
off‐set by constraints to achieving what otherwise seems obvious and straightforward redevelopment.
Springfield will need to work diligently at converting constraints to redevelopment into opportunities for
actual investments to overcome risks associated with:
− Adverse impacts of nearby non‐conforming, inappropriate, poorly designed, poorly maintained,
or poorly located existing uses;
− Lack of adequate existing public infrastructure
− Market uncertainty;
− Property speculation;
− Unrealistic expectations of values, costs, and readiness for development;
− Economic feasibility;
− Protections pertinent and required for natural resource areas;
− Brownfield development challenges (i.e. environmental cleanup); and
− Extended development processing from annexation to site plan review to building permit
issuance.
Springfield and SEDA are both working to explain, inform, and guide owners and developers through
these development constraints. Both organizations exist, in part, to provide information, better
coordination and, when applicable and/or available, financial support for key public and private
projects. Both Springfield and SEDA, through public‐private partnerships, hope to instill energy in and
for successful private projects that, in turn, stimulate more private investments in sought‐after
commercial, residential, mixed‐use, and employment centers.
Commercial & Industrial Buildable Land Supply
Nearly all parcels in the Glenwood Riverfront are classified in the CIBL as vacant or potentially
redevelopable industrial, commercial, and mixed‐use sites. The proposed plan designations for the
Glenwood Riverfront, as described in the Land Use Chapter, will result in vacant and redevelopable
parcels in the Glenwood Riverfront contributing to Springfield’s commercial and industrial buildable
lands supply as depicted in Table 1. There is a citywide deficit of industrial parcels greater than 20 acres,
and there is a deficit of commercial and mixed‐use parcels greater than 1 acre. Therefore, parcels sized
in these categories must be maintained or increased (through parcel consolidation) to preserve the
commercial and industrial land supply.
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Objective:
Maintain and/or increase (through parcel consolidation) parcel sizes of parcels in Commercial Mixed‐
Use, Office Mixed‐Use, and Employment Mixed‐Use designations to preserve Springfield’s commercial
and industrial land supply.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Prohibit land division of parcels greater than 20 acres that are designated Employment Mixed‐
Use, unless developed according to an approved Master Plan.
• Prohibit land division of parcels greater than 1 acres that are designated Commercial Mixed‐Use
or Office Mixed‐Use.
Existing Businesses
The growth of existing firms, both industrial and commercial, is a long‐standing and continued priority
interest to the Springfield community, its leaders, and its urban renewal agency. This will help in
attracting new infill development in the Glenwood Riverfront that would benefit from the same
utilization of Glenwood’s key locational advantages; quick and easy access to the entire metropolitan
area, to local commercial, industrial and residential areas using major highways, and to the I‐5
interchanges and these same resources and locational linkages to the greater region.
Objective:
Assist and support growth of existing businesses in the Glenwood Riverfront that are suitable for and
conform to the Glenwood Riverfront’s long‐term redevelopment and land use plans.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Provide financial incentives for renovation of current commercial and industrial uses compatible
with this Plan’s goals and objectives through SEDA’s tax increment‐funded programs, as funding
becomes available.
• Provide financial assistance with wastewater and other services improvements, as well as
annexation, to businesses when applicable and as funding becomes available.
• Enhance investment and re‐investment in the community by supporting expansion of existing
businesses that are suitable for and conform to the Glenwood Riverfront’s long‐term
redevelopment and land use plans.
• Provide creative financing approaches to facilitate large scale infrastructure development, when
applicable and as funding becomes available.
New Businesses
The Glenwood Riverfront is a logical location when considering where to site new development and
redevelopment in the metro area. The Glenwood Riverfront lies directly between Springfield’s and
Eugene’s population centers, is partially annexed into the City to allow urbanization, has relatively low
valued improvements on relatively high valued land along Willamette River frontage, and provides quick
access to I‐5 and Highway 126. Redevelopment could occur rapidly in the Glenwood Riverfront with
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improvements to Franklin Boulevard, and building an interior local street network linking new
development areas to existing and proposed employment areas and the existing public transit system.
With slightly lower land values, Springfield development sites have been quicker and, overall, less
expensive to develop than Eugene sites. Further, Glenwood Riverfront sites may yet offer nearly
equivalent amenities and potentially some better ones along the Willamette River’s frontage. The
Glenwood Riverfront’s locational advantages, land development opportunities, and relatively low land
costs compared to high values elsewhere in other development hot spots, should enhance the
Glenwood Riverfront’s attractiveness to residents, businesses, developers, and investors as other
development costs continue to rise and quality development sites become scarce.
Consequently, Office Mixed‐Use, Commercial Mixed‐Use, and Employment Mixed‐Use development will
likely increase in the Glenwood Riverfront as urban services can be made available and development
costs seem more feasible, excluding speculative land costs, for developing a unique, quality living and
working environment. Development along the Willamette River will accelerate once needed public
infrastructure is constructed. However, an overriding concern with future development,
redevelopment, and public infrastructure development is to ensure that the quality of life in the
Glenwood Riverfront is high, preferably always improving, and supportive of its existing residents and
businesses with a minimum of disruptive transitions.
One way that Springfield encourages growth and business development is through the Enterprise Zone
tax incentive program. In a partnership with the State of Oregon, Springfield has established an
Enterprise Zone that includes most annexed areas of the City, including the annexed portions of the
Glenwood Riverfront. Enterprise Zones stimulate new investments in industrial land, buildings, and
equipment and foster job creation by reducing and/or abating property taxes on new eligible
investment. While eligibility can become more nuanced with details specific to each individual firm, the
essentials relate to the firm’s ability and intent to make new ‘industrial’ property investments and hire
the appropriate number of new ‘full‐time’ employees.
A more targeted and specific program is the Glenwood Urban Renewal Plan. This Plan provides a long‐
term redevelopment strategy and funding mechanism for public improvements, projects, infrastructure
systems, and activities, such as incentives or assistance to private redevelopment. SEDA, in 2009,
reprioritized its strategies for redevelopment and assistance to better prioritize its limited funds in
Glenwood when faced with making a funding decision or investment.
Objective:
Attract new business and development to the Glenwood Riverfront, including a mix of office,
commercial, and employment uses.
Policies & Implementation Strategies:
• Support and encourage development in appropriate areas, as identified in the Land Use
Chapter, to generate property tax revenue.
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• Maximize public investments in planned land uses to enhance the Glenwood Riverfront’s long‐
term economic future.
• Provide financial incentives to assist developers in solving critical problems and overcoming
barriers to development as annexation occurs and funding becomes available.
• Explain, inform, and guide property owners and developers through mitigating identified
development constraints.
• Encourage the expansion and development of value‐added business to produce jobs that match
the current and future labor force by considering wage levels, employment stability, training
and hiring opportunities for local workers, youth, and protected classes.
• Leverage the community’s resources to the maximum extent possible with private investment
and, where appropriate, with other public funding sources, such as state and federal grants.
• Provide supportive programs and incentives to demonstrate how development controls and
design standards can be implemented, included in development projects, and built where such
protections need to be stringent.
• Link certain public improvements to adjust to the shifts from rural‐like and separated industrial
uses to urban mixed‐use development.
• Ensure orderly sequencing of development through incentives to maximize use of existing and
anticipated investments in public resources and facilities to leverage private investments and to
minimize, mitigate, or offset potential negative impacts on new investments, neighborhoods,
parks, and other uses.
• Provide suitable assistance in areas for growth, development, and redevelopment to increase
employment opportunities for the local labor force, at all wage levels but especially for wage
levels that allow individuals to support themselves and their households.
• Provide creative financing approaches to facilitate large scale infrastructure development, when
applicable and as funding becomes available.
Attachment 2-13
Table 1 Glenwood Riverfront Commercial & Industrial Buildable Lands Supply*
Site Size (acres)
Less than 1 1 to 2 2 to 5 5 to 20 20 to 50 Greater than 50 Total
# Vacant Sites
Industrial** 8 5 2 1 1 0 17
Commercial & Mixed Use*** 6 3 0 1 0 0 10
Total # Vacant Sites 14 8 2 2 1 0 27
# Redevelopable Sites
Industrial** 13 5 2 3 0 0 23
Commercial & Mixed Use*** 14 9 4 1 0 0 28
Total # Redevelopable Sites 27 14 6 4 0 0 51
*Based on proposed plan designations; however, properties currently designated residential or parks and open
space are not included because the CIBL did not include non‐commercial/industrial properties in the analysis. Such
parcels would further add to the commercial and industrial buildable lands supply (10 sites less than 1 acre, 1 site 5
to 20 acres, and 8 sites constrained by hillsides).
** Parcels proposed for Employment Mixed‐Use designation
***Parcels proposed for Commercial Mixed‐Use and Office Mixed‐Use designations
Attachment 2-14