>La Grande Observer | Union and Wallowa Counties' News Leader

Not since PayLess, Sprouse-Reitz, Keith O'Brien, JC Penney's, Zimmermans, Bohnenkamps and Montgomery Ward — to name a few — all existed at the same time in downtown La Grande has the core area seen the vibrancy it once had. But a citizens group is out to change the tide that has besieged La Grande's downtown for far too long.

The La Grande Downtown Renaissance Committee has been meeting for nearly a year to come up with a vision for downtown. The group's goal is to kick-start a downtown enhancement and development program. The group recognizes, like many of us, that the downtown has languished far too long.

In recent years the core area has seen some rejuvenation. The development of Max Square, the addition of planter boxes put in place by volunteers, business owners who have upgraded their buildings, and investments such as ODS, the library and the N.K. West building have done much to improve downtown. All those efforts should be saluted. But getting the vibrancy back is going to take much more, as any resurging downtown has recognized. New businesses want to be part of an energized, pedestrian-friendly environment. Build one and they will come, as communities like Hood River, Grants Pass, McMinnville and Walla Walla have recognized.

Imagine a downtown with character — and lots of people. One with period street lights, historic-style storefronts, street trees and planters, benches, new sidewalks. Imagine a pedestrian mall on Fourth Street between Adams and Jefferson. A renewed Depot Street and, if dreams allow, a refurbished train depot that houses, say, a restaurant and brew pub. Imagine the impact that making La Grande's downtown a hub of activity would have on recruiting new businesses, doctors, EOU students and faculty and new professionals. And imagine what a renewed downtown might mean to those of us who already make this area our home.

The Renaissance Committee has come up with a vision for a revitalized downtown. Monday evening members of the committee will meet in a work session with the

La Grande City Council to start talking about what can be. The council needs to review those plans and offer support and guidance to keep the momentum going.

With the library completed and the groundwork laid for the new industrial park, it's time for the city to step up to the next chapter in La Grande's efforts to transform itself. Downtown development needs to be a priority.