Economic Development

The Economic and Capital Development Department manages economic development programs and capital projects that support the attraction, retention and expansion of local businesses and enhance the overall economic vitality of Lake Oswego. Working with local, State, Federal and Regional Economic Development Partners and the business community, the Department manages activities and programs in commercial areas throughout the City, including Downtown, Lake Grove Village, the Kruse Way corridor, and the Southwest Industrial Area. The Department is also responsible for capital investment projects including facilities planning and leading the Lake Oswego to Portland Streetcar project.

Key initiatives in 2009-2010 include market research, creation and implementation of an economic development strategic plan and work program, Foothills redevelopment planning, Streetcar planning, and City facility planning.

What's New...

New Location!

The Economic and Capital Development Department and Lake Oswego Redevelopment Agency have moved to a temporary office location at 430 5th Street in downtown Lake Oswego near City Hall. Phone numbers have not changed.

Business Solutions

For assistance as you start or expand your business, please refer to our business resource contacts. Our business solutions team welcomes your call:

Business Assistance: Jane Blackstone, Economic Development Manager
503-635-0243

Development and Permitting: Leslie Hamilton, Planning Business Liaison
503-675-3731

Forms and Information

Please check out new Forms and Handouts that describe Development Review processes, timelines for review, and Development Code Standards.

Current Market Research

Marketek has recently completed retail market studies for the City and business community. Findings from this research will help guide development of an economic development strategic plan and work program for consideration by City Council early in 2010.

Click here for some great resource Tools for Business Success

Lake Oswego Redevelopment Agency

In 1979, the Lake Oswego City Council formed the Lake Oswego Redevelopment Agency (LORA) to revitalize a defined urban renewal district in the downtown area of Lake Oswego. Using tax increment financing and other public financing programs, LORA invests in projects and programs that enhance the business environment and stimulate private investment. As described in the 2004 East End Redevelopment Plan Update, LORA invests in a variety of projects, including public parks, trails and plazas, streetscape improvements, façade grants to improve existing commercial properties, and partnerships to facilitate and support private development of vibrant mixed-use projects.

2009-2010 PROJECTS

Completion of the final phase of Millennium Park
Final planning and initiation of construction of Lakefront Park

Planning for the North Anchor redevelopment and new library at B Avenue and 1st Street
Improvements to the North Shore Drive and State Street intersection
Completion of the A Avenue crosswalk signal at 5th Street
Administration of commercial façade grants

Contacts

Brant Williams, Director, Economic and Capital Development Department

Jane Blackstone, Economic Development Manager

Robert Galante, Director, Lake Oswego Redevelopment Agency