Downtown Lake Oswego

I had the opportunity earlier today to take a walk around downtown Lake Oswego. The city has really put a lot of work into making it a nice destination. There is just a ton of public art all over the place! The newest addition is a lovely building with a parking garage hidden inside in the middle, with retail along the sidewalks around the edges, right downtown at State & A. I parked and walked about. They did a nice job of incorporating the parking structure in with the retail "shell" around it. I also feel that they did a nice job considering the topography of the site.

I had been hearing all about Millenium Plaza Park for a while. Driving by, I always wondered what the big deal was. Today I discovered why- you only see the lower plaza from State Street. Most of the park is up above, and it is really neat! There is a large plaza fronting a timbered pergola sturcture, complete with restrooms, serving area, and a neat little hearth area with a fire lace. Moveable tables and chairs were available. With the view of the lake, it was a lovely little spot. I can see why it is so popular.

I also walked around the older parts of downtown a bit. The public art program is qute extensive. There are small pockets of redevelopment here and there, and I can see the potential for more. With the possiblity of the streetcar's eventual extension this way, downtown lake Oswego is definitely a place to keep an eye on!

February 15, 2004 09:08 PM