Agenda Item - 2010-04-19 (02) Vision of Lake Oswego in 2028
REVISED 2/09/08
Lake Oswego is recognized nationally as a model of livability—a unified city with a vital
downtown, a strong sense of neighborhoods, and a sustainable environment. Our lives
are enriched by a wide range of choices in transportation, housing, recreation, and
culture. Our infrastructure is sound, our finances stable, and our citizens engaged.
Our full-service downtown is the center of our city, offering business opportunities,
convenient shopping, housing and cultural attractions. Millennium Plaza Park is a focal point,
and a walkway stretches south along the bay. The Foothills district east of Highway 43 has been
redeveloped as a mixed use neighborhood, including affordable, sustainably-constructed
housing. The Lake Grove village center has been improved with multi-modal transportation
options, pedestrian access, gathering places and mixed uses and supports a thriving business
district.
We foster diverse, family-friendly neighborhoods, each retaining its unique
character. Compatible redevelopment in mature neighborhoods is assured through fair and
open processes: Homeowners have some flexibility in upgrading existing stock, and infill blends
with the surrounding environment. Affordable housing choices are available. Stafford is
developed thoughtfully (if at all), reflecting the livability of Lake Oswego.
Residents have a variety of transportation options. Many modes of travel, such as
bus, streetcar, water transportation, bike paths, pathways, and well-maintained roads connect
our neighborhoods, strengthen our sense of community, and offer choices for moving around
and beyond our city.
We grow in harmony with our natural setting. We treasure natural beauty, open
space, and a close connection to the clean water in our rivers, streams, and lake. A green
necklace of trails surrounds us and interlaces our neighborhoods. Our Willamette riverfront
includes connected pathways, marina, and water recreation. Residents enjoy visual access to
the lake along walkways and public spaces. We maintain a strong tree code, and develop
greenways, green boulevards, landscaped medians, and pathways. All new development is
compatible with the environment, and the community has reached its goal of climate neutrality.
We provide a variety of quality recreational and cultural opportunities. Lake
Oswego is a center for entertainment and culture, crowned by the arts center. Our Community
Center is open to all citizens and recreational opportunities are available for people of all ages
and abilities. We value aesthetic qualities that enhance our livability.
Our quality of life is supported by the best infrastructure in the region—
water, sewer, storm water, roads, and public facilities. Our police and fire departments provide
quick response to all calls. The City generates sufficient revenues to guarantee financial stability
and joins with others in the private and public sectors to make the most of our public
investments. We pay City staff fairly and retain quality employees for years.
Active citizens of all ages work together for the good of our united
community