Walnut Station Progress and vital growth in the form of land development and infill are apparent along Franklin Boulevard. This photo composition shows the proximity of the Showroom to the construction site for the University of Oregon's Matthew Knight Arena. "In May 2005, the City of Eugene, in cooperation with the University of Oregon and the State of Oregon, initiated a planning process for an area along Franklin Boulevard known as "Walnut Station." Walnut Station is a transit stop location on the EmX line between downtown Eugene and downtown Springfield. It is also the epicenter of a planning initiative to stimulate redevelopment of this area as a key mixed use center for Eugene." For more information on Walnut Station, please visit the City of Eugene webpage on Walnut Station. "A New Look for Franklin?" A December, 2007 edition of the Register-Guard featured a front page story ona proposed nodal development along Franklin Boulevard and east of campus called Walnut Station. The article cites Portland's Pearl District development as a model the East University/Franklin Boulevard area Eugene might experience under a "form-based planning" system. The Pearl District revitalization has supported the preservation and incorporation of significant older, existing structures and their restoration to provide for current demands. Mixed-use spaces provide for both commercial and residential needs. These efforts attempt to maintain the history and character of a neighborhood while allowing for development and growth to serve, and perhaps enhance, the established neighborhood and businesses. Finally, it's been noted that the least expensive building to build, is one that is already standing. Rebirth of a Local Landmark The preservation of the Romania Showroom and its integration into the Walnut Station development could provide a positive, high-profile opportunity to convey both the history of the University of Oregon and the City of Eugene. Our community should support the rebirth and meaningful reuse of this local, architectural landmark in a manner that will serve our community for another 50 years and beyond! Amongst the new 5 to 7 story Walnut Station construction anticipated along Franklin Boulevard, we preserve the Showroom in an open, park-like space that will encourage residents and visitors to relax and gather. This would offer a much-appreciated contrast to the dense commercial and residential infill being planned. We might compare such an open, community space to Portland's Pioneer Courthouse Square or our own Eugene downtown park blocks. There are many possible way to reuse the Showroom. In general, the best use would be one that encourages tourists, visitors and the general public to experience the Showroom space. This could be achieved through it's reuse as a high-profile retail establishment or as some sort of multi-use center. Here are some other suggested ideas for reutilization: - a DuckStore - a Museum of the University of Oregon (featuring photos and artifacts related to the history & development of the University) - visitor information center - chamber of commerce - restaurant - entrance/lounge/security foyer to a larger new construction project - Mac Store and internet cafe Policy Twelve of the UO Campus Plan (Design Area Special Conditions) identifies the importance of Franklin Boulevard as it relates to the University: "Development along the Franklin Boulevard edge is highly visible to the public. It is the primary automobile entrance to the university and often provides the first (and sometimes only) impression of the university for visitors and community members. Every opportunity should be taken to improve the visual qualities of this area and convey the university's public role, mission, and history." In an era of sustainability, finding a new, meaningful use for this historic resource makes sense! Building Community In the midst of great change along Franklin Boulevard, this author believes it is important to identify what, if anything, might be worth saving from the wrecking ball. The "potato-chip roof" building is an important example of our local architecture. Preservation of Joe Romania showroom would also celebrate the area's history of business development. Our local, historic resources provide a tangible connection to our shared past. They are non-renewable resources and as such should be conserved and protected! The image below shows the proximity of the former Romania showroom to the first traffic light and intersection as commuters enter the City of Eugene from the east, either from Interstate-5 or via Glenwood. Highway 99 has long-welcomed visitors to our fair city. Although initially built to promote the automobile, the Showroom could now announce...Eugene history & Duck pride!