Irsfeld, BrendanRebecca, Lewis2021-06-112021-06-112021-06https://hdl.handle.net/1794/26326121 pagesUO graduate students collaborated in four research groups to propose amendments to the Goal 2 and 9 chapters of the city of Troutdale Comprehensive Land Use Plan. Students employed a variety of methods to inform their research, including: * Comparisons of Troutdale’s Comprehensive Plan to other relevant planning resources (e.g., Metro 2040 Regional Growth Framework) * Review of relavent case studies * Literature review of mixed-use zoning and economic development trends * Collecting and analyzing U.S. Census data * Drawing on local resources, including previous public outreach efforts and conversations with City planning staff The mixed-use research groups emphasized how a mixed-use zoning designation in the Town Center could help the City both develop the area commercially and accommodate housing needs. According to students’ research, approaching mixed-use zoning through the “fine-grained” approach can reduce the cost of land, increase the number of destinations along a street, and help diversify the local economy. The result can lower barriers of entry to investors and entrepreneurs, thereby cultivating a more resilient economy and vibrant community. Recognizing the needs of the Town Center districts, the second mixed-use group envisioned three newzones. Along Historic Columbia River Highway, a Downtown Mixed Use (MU-1) zone would emphasize commercial development, with residential uses complementing the area. Where the Halsey neighborhood and land along SW 257th Drive are located, a General Mixed Use (MU-2) zone prioritizes residential land use complemented with commercial uses. Students reasoned that these zoning designations can preserve the existing character of the downtown (the MU-1 zone) while meeting residents’ expectations for developing vacant land (foundations of the MU-2 zone). Lastly, an Urban Mixed Use (MU-3) zone would accommodate the unique opportunities afforded by the undeveloped Confluence Site adjacent to downtown. The two economic development groups drew on similar themesand identified the emerging trends communities are using to boost their local economies. Emphasizing the risks posed by climate change, each group recommended that Troutdale prioritize a commitment to creating “green collar jobs” in its local economy. Operating an energy-efficient and less wasteful economy can support residents’ quality of life in the decades to come. In addition, each group presented a unique approach for supporting an emerging micro-retail environment and taking advantage of Troutdale’s available industrial land. One approach emphasized “industrial clustering” or the effort to encourage related businesses in a supply chain to locate near each other. Highlighting the increasing need for data processing capacity, students outlined how Troutdale could leverage its competitive advantages in available industrial land and support emerging micro-retail businesses to take advantage of the benefits data centers provide a 21st century economy.en-USCreative Commons BY-NC-ND 4.0-USTerminal Project