Why Salem, Oregon, is poised to succeed in the emerging ‘knowledge economy’.

Salem has a head start in the emerging global competition between cities.

Across America and the world, cities are striving to attract "cultural creative" people and the new "knowledge economy" businesses. New trends in urban planning and real-estate development are leading the way.

Salem’s head start is the vibrancy of its downtown, which is a result of the hard work of citizens and elected officials over many years. Forward-thinking planning and development led to urban-renewal projects like the Civic Center, Salem Center and Pringle Creek Plaza. We have preserved beautiful historic buildings, and we continue to see them fill up with unique businesses.

Salem is fortunate to have wonderful parks that provide a variety of recreational and social opportunities.

Another big advantage comes from "Brand Oregon" — who wouldn’t want to live in a state that is green, clean and iconoclastic? We have the elegant benefits of our location — our proximity to mountains, beaches and Portland. We have two great colleges and a great university in Salem, and five more within an hour’s commute.

TONY NIELSEN

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