Let’s correct some common misconceptions around Town Center Development Plan and Urban Renewal

It’s important to correct some common myths about the Urban Renewal (UR) proposal for Town Center.

Also, please read the full plan at https://www.wilsonvilletowncenter.com/tcp. 

MYTH: It’s A Giveaway 
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. 

MYTH: There’s No Parking Plan 
The UR plan allocates money for public parking solutions or negotiating public parking availability within private development. 

MYTH: Traffic Will Get Worse 
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: Buildings Are Too Tall 
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: It’s Too Dense 
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. 

MYTH: Other Tax Districts Lose 
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: It Hurts Our Budget 
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. 

The facts are clear. Vote YES on 3-641.