Critical Analysis of Eugene

My critical analysis of Eugene focuses on its downtown core and the problems I have observed there, which include too many asphalt parking lots and Eugene’s homeless population. Both the amount of unused space due to parking lots and the large homeless population in downtown Eugene creates a very unfriendly place for people to visit, shop and eat. Downtown Eugene is presently underutilized because many businesses have relocated to other areas of the city, but the downtown core has the potential to make a comeback. Before that can happen, however, the city needs to seriously address some the two major problems presented by the current downtown environment. These include the massive amount of unused and ugly parking spaces and making downtown a friendlier place by addressing the homeless population issues.

The unused parking spaces should be removed to create more space to build new public buildings, professional offices, restaurants and retail stores. Historical renovation would enhance and place emphasis on the older buildings that already exist. Improving the public transit system will also help encourage people to return to down town. Eugene should also create more homeless shelters should be created to get people off the streets even if they are intoxicated or high. Along with more shelters Eugene could also create a “10 year plan” like Portland has to help reduce homeless population.

The city could create a more inviting downtown by creating public spaces that could provide venues for community building events. Making these changes should encourage more people to come downtown. Businesses will also return downtown if they can be assured there are shoppers and dinners to buy their goods and enjoy their food.