Let’s correct some common misconceptions around the Town Center Development District and Urban Renewal.
Myth Busting
Urban Renewal pays for public projects and programs specifically defined by the Urban Renewal plan. These projects directly address blight and infrastructure needs, create a strategic Town Center layout, and support amenities for the community.
1
MYTH: It’s A Giveaway
The UR plan allocates money for public parking solutions or negotiating public parking availability within private development.
MYTH: There’s No Parking Plan
2
Several projects specifically address Wilsonville Road traffic. But more importantly, Wilsonville’s traffic comes primarily from I-5 and commuters working in Wilsonville. Housing in Town Center won’t shift that calculus.
MYTH: Traffic Will Get Worse
3
Town Center zoning limits buildings near I-5 to 5 stories, reducing to 3 stories in east Town Center. This provides critical balance between our existing town and new growth.
MYTH: Buildings Are Too Tall
4
The UR plan assumes density comparable to condos and apartments in Villebois’ center. The plan assumes less than half of Town Center redevelops over 28 years. Change occurs gradually and protects existing businesses and uses.
5
MYTH: It’s Too Dense
UR Tax Increment Financing is done under stringent state laws and with consultation of fire, police, county, and education tax districts. The state backstops K12 education for the duration of the UR district. When the UR district ends, all tax districts benefit from the significantly increased tax base. Without UR, Town Center continues to underperform for all tax districts.
MYTH: Other Tax Districts Lose
6
Town Center suffers from blight and aging infrastructure. Wilsonville Road intersections need improvement. Urban Renewal will fund needed projects that would otherwise burden the City’s regular budget, reducing money available for other critical needs.
7
MYTH: It Hurts Our Budget
Explore the Town Center Plan
Adopted by the Wilsonville City Council in 2019, the Town Center Plan establishes the community’s long-term vision for the Town Center area, including land use, transportation, public spaces, parking, and development.
Learn more about the vision, history, and details of the plan at wilsonvilletowncenter.com/tcp.