Longview Weather
High 77°F
Low 51°F
Full Forecaste

Past Month's Most Commented Stories

Home > Breaking News

Special report: Downtown Longview merchants speak out about problems, opportunities

Friday, April 11, 2008 3:13 PM PDT

Font Size:
 
 

A report presented at Thursday night’s Longview City Council meeting by business builder Hank Sowerwine reveals that most of downtown businesses last year met or exceeded 2006’s sales, and expect to do at least as well this year. However, most merchants also said they don’t plan to hire any new employees.

These findings were part of a “business sentiment and opinions survey” of 33 downtown merchants that ended Feb. 29. The survey generated comments ranging from minor gripes to what most business owners saw as the major problems facing downtown.

What follows is the entire report Sowerwine presented to the council.

Updated on April 10, 2008

Downtown Longview, 2008 Business Sentiment and Opinions survey, which ended on February 29th.

In order to measure the pulse and tenor of our downtown’s businesses, the following survey developed and solicited by direct physical delivery, as well as via an Internet ‘monkey survey’ to all of the businesses in the Downtown Longview D.C. zone.

There were 11 questions, 7 multiple choice and 4 for written responses. Each is completely tabulated below and not edited except for spelling. A total of 33 businesses responded (surprisingly high number perhaps?) of which, 21 were from the Internet link and 12 hard copies collected from drop boxes at 10 various business locations. A few respondents skipped some answers, so not all questions have 33 data points.

The Results:

Question #1: How did your sales for 2007 compare to 2006?

A. exceeded - 17 - 58%

B. same as - 6 - 21%

C. fell short - 6 - 21%

Question #2: How do you expect 2008’s sales will compare to 2007?

A. exceed - 15 - 54%

B. same as - 11 - 39%

C. fall shor - 2 - 7%

Question #3: Do you anticipate hiring any additional employees during 2008?

A. yes - 8 - 28%

B. no - 20 - 72%

Question #4: How do you feel about the level of crime and safety in the downtown area?

A. safer - 6 - 19%

B. less safe - 6 - 19%

C. the same - 20 - 62%

Question #5: If you were to receive an unexpected financial windfall of $50,000, what would you do with the money?

A. Spend it - 1 - 3%

B. Save or invest - 12 - 38%

C. Invest in business - 1 - 53%

D. Othe - 2 - 6% Invest in beautification / streetscape.

Question #6: How do you feel about the following statement? ‘Downtowns are the heart and soul of the community and reflect how people feel about the place in which they live.’

A. agree - 23 - 72%

B. disagree - 9 - 28%

Question #7: ‘Economic Leakage’ is defined as consumer spending made outside of the community in which they live. This leakage causes loss of employment opportunities and reduced overall economic diversity. What suggestion(s) would you make to encourage more of those dollars to be spent locally?

1. We need more advertisement for downtown shopping and encourage this city to help keep downtown more clean like it used to be. Maybe some businesses can do like the Father’s House did and do a face lift to the downtown community. I remember when I was young how fun it was to come downtown with my mother while she got her hair done. I got to go to the movies and shop at Sears. We need more safety and family fun down here and a clean environment like it used to be.

2. Some of the items we need are not available here, i.e. professional clothing.

3. Unique buying experiences not generally available in malls, etc.

4. To a degree ... any non-locally owned business is economic leakage unless it draws spenders from other areas. Any help the locals can get to; reduce operating costs, eliminate taxes that contribute to discontent (even if they increase in legitimate areas), do improvements, train ourselves and employees, keep the streets and sidewalks clean, eliminating a particular drug house ... all contribute to improved customer experiences.

5.Be open later. People can’t shop when they are working. Be open when working people are off work. Don’t demand that people buy locally, but as them to give you a chance and then act like you want their business.

6. Determine what products are being purchased and then determine how to make local purchases more attractive. I am not sure what you can do about Internet sales and purchases ‘across the river’. But I understand Elams’ will take the sales tax off the purchase price on some of all items. Why don’t they advertise this fact? I understand they have more latitude to do this since they have high ticket and higher markup merchandise — but can other merchants do the same thing?

7. To make our businesses in Longview more appealing and want to make the consumer feel that they are more important to us than if they were to leave town to spend their money.

8. The downtown Longview parking problem is one of the biggest drawbacks to shopping downtown. Maybe a large multi story-parking garage with a reasonable parking rate with inside advertisement (so it’s not visible from street) at a not so reasonable rate might help this problem.

9. From a practical perspective, there is no good answer to this question. Consumers’ want: variety and selection, competitive pricing, and convenience. Retail business is brutal, and most downtown businesses are much too small to offer a wide variety of goods because the cost of holding inventory is so high. A local business also cannot compete in regard to price with a large retailer or ‘big box’ store in the long-term — that is not to say the larger retailer won’t under price themselves into bankruptcy, but they will still offer considerably lower prices to the consumer than a local business ‘running on a shoestring’. Last, and perhaps most importantly, convenience: most downtown retail businesses are NOT open after 5–6 p.m. In our society, who (.. with disposable income) really has the time to do ‘significant’ shopping before 6 p.m.? Nobody does, because everyone is working. When they do shop, they will go somewhere that they can accomplish most or all of their shopping needs (e.g. large malls or retailers that offer ‘all-in-one’ shopping such as Fred Meyer or Target).

10. Improve/invest in the downtown area. Lots of people go out of the area because non-profit organizations, dollar stores, pawnshops, casinos and buildings with a significant amount of deferred maintenance dominate our downtown. Lots of people are going to the Pearl District in Portland because of the investment that has been made there and the variety of shops, restaurant and entertainment that is available.

11. Don’t know enough about economics to comment. I think we need to define Longview as a community. Is it artsy? Is it family oriented? I’ve learned through my own business that it is difficult to be all things to all people. The business ‘look’ becomes diluted. Maybe if we focused on one thing and only that one thing, the other businesses will benefit. So far, the car shows have been a huge draw. I would really like to see weekly evening car events (the same one ... all specialty cars are invited). Block off streets at NIGHT. Street Fair booths, the whole nine yards. This will not interfere with other markets. It will not interfere with daytime business (no one will be upset about any streets being blocked off). Parking will be easier because many businesses (banks, etc) will not be open.

12. Many local businesses seem to be blind to the fact that consumers are willing to drive to Portland to safe money. Not only are prices better, there is also the sales tax savings. Local businesses need to compete with that as well as the BIG BOX stores in town. If the business can’t beat the prices then they need to provide better service. As business people, we need to go above and beyond to please our customers… otherwise they will go elsewhere.

13. In my opinion, we’re missing on the major retailers (Old Navy, GAP just to name a few. In my opinion, I believe that if they were encouraged to open up shop in Longview/Kelso area, it would help keep more people locally. I realize those major retailers take their money outside of our local economy, but keeping the shoppers in our area instead of traveling to Vancouver or Portland is a good thing because they will inherently spend money on local business too because they are here and not there.

14. Better marketing of local community assets and benefits of buying local. 2. Good News and Pride promotion to improve local commitment to the local economy that can lead to more reinvestment. 3. Enhance pedestrian access and traffic flow and/or enhance public transportation to move the young people and students as well as the community at large around the community for entertainment and shopping.

15. We need some diversity ... Shopping, dining, lunching, services… sot so much repetition of already present businesses.

16. Major store downtown or known small business.

17. Oregon sales tax or No Washington sales tax

18. Encourage efforts to buy local in Longview/Kelso. Cannot compete with Oregon where there is no sales tax. People have the Costco mentality and want to buy in bulk to acquire a good price. Compounding the issue is the proximity of Longview to Vancouver/Portland where people will shop. The distance is not a price-determining factor. The shopping experience provides variety.

19. People don’t shop locally because the shops they ‘do’ shop at are not local ... (not speaking just about downtown). If store such as IKEA, Borders, Old Navy were here, people would shop here. They aren’t and so people shop elsewhere.

20. More unrestricted parking (no hourly checks & fines) — only removal of vehicles left overnight after all day notice. The current policy drives away business & amplifies ill will towards Longview.

21. Clean up front of buildings downtown. Remodel front & insides of buildings downtown. Upgrade storefronts & signage. Cleaner, trendier look.

22. Spiff up storefronts, and offer better customer service.

23. Tough question. We are a unique area with tax-free shopping down the road. Very hard to compete with that. People are willing to take the drive to save the money.

24. Find ways to make the ‘downtown area’ more attractive for a diverse range of businesses. Clean up the alleys and parking lots. Have more parking available for owners & employees / get out of the ‘2 hour tag’ games.

25. Make the community more desirable to work and shop in.

26. Try to develop community pride & advantage of ‘shopping locally’. Diversify shopping opportunities. Make parking more shopping friendly, such as changing 12th and 14th from 2 hours to 4 hours.

Question #8: What comments (constructive or otherwise) and suggestions do you hear from your customers and neighbors about their experiences doing business in downtown Longview?

1. More police presence would be appreciated.

2. They’re scared … there’s too much crime down here. It pushes them to shop in Oregon. Also the prices the shops put on their items… we need to remember these are hard times, lets help the consumers

3. Poor service, too many thrift stores and pawnshops.

4. Residents are not familiar with what is available downtown. I often hear, ‘I did not know… was downtown!’

5. Most people avoid ‘this par of town’ after dark. Parking is an issue. Any construction permit vehicle parked all day in a vital spot can cost us up to 20% of our normal daily revenue. Panhandlers are an issue, which contributes to the lack of traffic after dark. Overall people new to the area like our downtown.

6. I run into people all the time who live here and never visit downtown. I am not sure what it will take to be interested.

7. They sometimes forget to shop downtown Longview ..., once they are there, they have a really good time.

8. I haven’t heard from others about their experiences.

9. Poor parking, poorly maintained buildings, everything feels cheap.

10. The people complain about the street people and limited parking. So, get rid of the low rent apartments and the ‘Community House’. Build a parking structure.

11. Parking problem. We can tell them all day long that they only have to walk 50 yards ... the perception is still that parking is a problem. It seems the average shopper is looking for a bargain downtown because of all the thrift shops and discount stores. That is what our clientele is now.

12. My Academy brings hundreds of potential customers to downtown every week. The sad thing is that many of them don’t spend their money downtown while they’re there. Why not? Are there any family restaurants downtown? Is there anything FUN to do downtown? Is the atmosphere at night welcoming to families or is it too dark, too quiet, and kind of spooky?

13. Sidewalks roll up after 5 p.m.

14. I believe the larger mills in town that are laying off help are the biggest challenge. They are having tough times of their own, and as a result it impacts a small community like ours more significantly than a larger city. In other words, the bigger businesses lead the curve for smaller businesses in the area. If they suffer, we all do.

15. ‘I didn’t know this was here! I didn’t know Longview had such a nice store. You belong in Portland or Seattle.’ ‘I haven’t been to downtown Longview in ages.’ ‘If you don’t have it, I’ll be going to Portland.’ ‘Who makes that?’ ‘I’ve driven by for ages, I finally decided to come in.’

16. Parking is terrible! People are getting services and trying to fit in a meal but seem to overstay the 3-hour limit and end up with a parking ticket. There ‘has to be’ a solution… age-old problem ... historic to downtown (any one in any city!)

17. Parking — ugly car lots.

18. Not safe. Bad neighborhood. No parking.

19. Parking is a limiting factor! People who live here locally will not walk the 1-3 blocks. Therefore, they will go to lunch at McDonald’s rive through or Burger King. Why we are in love with our cars and care very little about walking short distances is quite silly. This is a real issue and this affects foot traffic. Stores are not open after 5 p.m. or on Sundays.

20. That its not a parking, lighting or theme issue ... They would come down & shop here if bigger name stores were here.

21. Many agree that they avoid coming downtown at all costs due to the militant policing & fines associated with parking too long in a space. We are essentially saying now ‘Get out of town’.

22. Parking, parking, parking. Customers need to be able to park in the very little parking there is for more than 2 hours. Plus, we need a downtown parking garage, with tickets that can be stamped by Downtown businesses for parking fee discounts like downtown Portland

23. Old buildings. They like new.

24. Too many drug dealers around. Visible drug activity. Loitering in front of businesses, particularly those that share buildings with apartments. Garbage, household appliances and furniture being left in alleys by apartment tenants.

25. Don’t like street people — look of the downtown. Say they don’t feel safe after dark & nothing to bring them downtown.

Question # 9: What can the Downtowners do (and what can the City do) to help improve the economic vitality of downtown? Can you suggest services we might provide, policies we might adopt, activities we might sponsor / promote, and capital improvements we might put in place?

1. I like the proposal of the downtown patrols that were proposed a few years ago.

2. Finish the lighting and crosswalks, for that was one thing they were doing for a face-lift. How about a walking stations or dog stations for doo-doo (sorry), or family station where they can answer questions on history of Longview etc.

3. Businesses that attract the shopping public to downtown. Art Walk held annually. Other activities that draw people downtown, like First Thursday.

4. Events such as Saturday Market, beautification projects, more public art.

5. Keeping the streets and sidewalks clean and well lit, vegetation maintained, along with businesses improving the customer experience all help to improve repeat visits.

6. The businesses downtown need to decide what they want and need to do as a group, and then get going. The past history has been to expect the Chamber or City to fix everything for them. I believe that the Downtowners need to get a plan and implement it. The City can help in a limited capacity. This may only start with a block or two, but with success it will grow if there is the desire. If there is no support from the people who will benefit, things will continue as in the past.

7. Cleaner sidewalks and parking lots would help as well as getting rid of the horrible tattoo parlor front window sign. Hopefully moving the Saturday Market to Commerce this summer will help as well.

8. I feel the downtowners should come together and hold sidewalk sales, open houses, ‘first Thursdays, and actually ADVERTISE that we are doing this. Downtown Longview is a very well kept secret.

9. The Saturday Market is a wonderful thing. Car shows open for different age groups, teens one week, twenty through thirty etc. Ids under driving age might have model or radio controlled cars. Bikes from BMX to Harley Davidson’s. Tractor shows from new to old, also might get scholarships for the best in class to get more kids interested. Parents from low-income households will love that.

10. First of all, the City (i.e. the taxpaying citizens) is not responsible to ‘prop up’ the downtown if it cannot succeed on its own. The downtown community must first address IN A MEANINGFUL WAY how they will deal with the problems addressed in the “... encourage more of those dollars to be spent locally” section. Capital improvements may or may not help to fix the problem, but if I HAD to make changes, I would permanently close Broadway (or maybe Hudson) to car traffic between 14th and Commerce, and make it a pedestrian area, partially covered to minimize the impact of rain and with installed propane heaters to kill the winter chill (i.e. from October to April, give or take). Go to Olympia or other communities and learn what it takes to make a semi-permanent and successful ‘weekend market’.

11. Build a parking garage or two; invite retail and specialty shops to invest through grants.

12. Limit nonprofit church fronts downtown. No tattoo/piercing parlors, homeless shelters, 2nd hand stores, used clothing stores, palm readers or car sales. Promote a ‘Canopy Contest’. Colorful canopies at each business would be fun for all and serve as a shelter during ‘Washington sunshine’.

13. Go to Ashland, Oregon and look a their downtown. What about downtown Olympia? What about Bend, Oregon? These are just 3 examples that I can think of where I’ve been and enjoyed my time.

14. Nothing that isn’t already known or under consideration. Consistency in signage, lighting, landscaping, seating are important. Avoid the hodge podge look.

15. I think part of our problem is a lack of activities for the 20-somethings. In this town, about all there is to do for them is drink. That is a bad thing. I’d love it if they’d open up a huge ‘go-kart track’. Just an idea ...

16. Finish the new Streetlight project ASAP. Keep downtown looking clean and neat and welcoming, like a park. (Like Lake Sacajawea) The lake is Longview’s back yard, downtown is it’s living room. Increase incentives for redevelopment of existing Downtown buildings instead of encouraging more and more sprawl. Celebrate Independent business as an American Home Town Tradition!

17. Friendly clerks / sidewalk sales.

18. Parking Garage. There is underutilized parking above the police station and Merk Renters & Section 8 subsidized housing folks all park behind the Merk. People in Longview have to walk distances.. This is an issue.

19. I feel like the main problem with downtown is the lack of anchor stores that draw customers downtown, that then help the novelty shops.

20. We need to create angle parking, alternating sides of the street, with benches, flowers, etc. We need to fire the traffic meter maids & guys — we should only police derelict vehicles. The Downtowners will not think forward & creatively — just sticks to the old ‘drive them away’ mentality.

21. Provide incentives for owners to actually rent out their buildings.

22. Take down old buildings & put up new ones. I know, very expensive, but people like ‘new’.

23. Clean up the streets and alleys. Have foot patrols for undercover police on Commerce and in the alleys.

24. More interaction and caring for each other between the businesses and the mutual efforts.

25. Make buildings more attractive. Better lighting. Fill up vacancies. Increase retail instead of services and non-profits.

Question # 10: Would you be willing to get involved and help with downtown activities and projects?

A. Yes - 9 - 27%

B. No - 7 - 21%

C. Possibly - 17 - 52%

Question #11: Please add anything else you would like to share and suggest.

1. I think things are looking up. The City Council is more responsive. Maybe a segment of each city council meeting (5-10 minutes) should be devoted to the individual business owners invited to discuss their issues.

2. I know you don’t see much of me, but I’ve been under the weather lately with surgery and all so I’m doing my best. Hopefully after surgery I can start attending the downtowners and get more involved.

3. Downtown Longview is going to have to truly CHANGE if it is to survive. Old downtowns die every day because they don’t have anything to offer the consumers of today. Look at the demographics, look at who sends the real money, look at who your real customers are (or who they should be), and look at who the Downtowners really want to be (Overall, and there are notable exceptions, they look like a mess of unorganized people to me) Quit ‘grasping at straws’ and find your strength – then MAKE it happen – don’t just hope for the best.

4. Require the City and the ‘Old Money’ to invest or sell their property to someone that will.

5. I have a hard enough time just managing my own business, let alone getting involved in helping downtown. I do have some ideas and input but I’m not willing to volunteer my time to help. I know that’s selfish. On the other hand, scores of businesses have folded in the time I’ve been downtown. I’m still here and I’m not going anywhere. Single-minded approach I know, but I stay in business if I stay focused. Thank you for the opportunity to vent.

6. Daily News give a break on small business for ads.

7. Get rid of parking limits (except for abandoned and derelict vehicles). Add some angle parking — alternative sides of the street — and make walkways more inviting with benches, flowers etc.

Business owners’ verbal comments during walk-about with Ken Botero, morning of April 10th (Sources were all long-established businesses on Commerce):

• Number one issue is the presence and behavior of drug dealers, users, prostitutes and certain slum-lord residents. These issues are far more vivid and negatively impact our downtown community’s ability to move forward than you can possibly imagine.

The consensus regarding the ‘street-life’ issue is that this is an absolute ‘non-starter’ and MUST be resolved if we are to attract the family-friendly storefronts and meaningfully change the public’s perception and participation in any effort to economic redevelopment and renovation of the downtown.

Suggestions for making specific improvements are:

1. To creatively combine financial resources and purchase particular buildings for renovation by a redevelopment core of supportive interests. Use the proceeds of resale of such projects to fund further redevelopment.

2. Bring the full force of regulation, both local and state, to insist on compliance or condemnation.

3. Encourage certain tenants to move, as suggested by Roger Brook’s approach of ‘rearranging the furniture’.

• Number two issue is visual. A meaningful number of storefronts (basically the same ones that harbor the upstairs negatives referred to above) are in very bad need of renovation and or repair. Solutions are the same.

• Number three issue is to improve the attractiveness of the downtown to new entrepreneurs to open ‘boutique’ businesses as well as retaining the solid existing gems which make our downtown such a diverse collection of special attractions. This can only be accomplished by getting serious about solving the issues already mentioned. There is a 100% agreement that indeed, if the downtown doesn’t ‘feel’ like a place you’d like to spend time yourself, then good luck expecting anyone else to act differently, whether local residents or visitors. An attractive streetscape is only a part, but an essential part, of that transformation to conveying a welcoming and inviting message.

• Business owners are fed up and frustrated, but at the same time are expressing a willingness to cooperate with efforts to improve the status quo. For instance, on the question of staying open later in the evening, most agree that they would be willing to do so, if the client traffic could be improved to make it worthwhile.

• Creative and positive ideas to help enhance the ‘product’ of the downtown experience are certainly not lacking. Positive marketing ideas, branding oriented ideas and ‘theme’ oriented concepts are plentiful. What ‘is’ lacking is action and a commitment to the essential steps we absolutely must make in order to have any hope at all of achieving the kind of lasting progress we all seek.

Respectfully submitted,

Hank Sowerwine / Downtown business-builder

Next

MrBee wrote on Apr 10, 2008 5:54 PM:

" There were some good comments. Most seemed to have to do with parking, safety, cleanliness and customer friendly. The tell all was the response to question #10! That is exactly what is wrong with Downtown Longview! "

trucker wrote on Apr 10, 2008 5:58 PM:

" how about more family wage jobs? oh i ferget we cant have that oh and tdn u better post this i called this afternoon about you no posting my blog notes "

Huh???? wrote on Apr 10, 2008 7:39 PM:

" Those essay answers were from local businesses? No wonder they're going broke. I figured they were from the average shopper who just doesn't know much about business. Anytime a business owner starts an answer with things like "Don’t know enough about economics to comment", then I think there in lies the major problem. How about getting some business owners who know the score. They should know things like "just adding a couple parking garages" or "bringing in Old Navy" are not possible with the current state of our downtown core area.

The biggest hurdles downtown have to overcome are absentee landlords and poor business people who just want to dabble in a hobby when they feel like it, but god forbid not after 5 pm or on Sundays. "

Rachel wrote on Apr 10, 2008 8:05 PM:

" Funny, they didn't mention public restrooms. If you can park for three hours or so don't you think you may need a place to "go"? Perhaps a parking garage with restrooms AND security. This shouldn't be paid for by the City but rather the people who would benefit. Also don't license apartments in the downtown area unless they pay for and provide at least one parking spot per apt. Don't expect the other guy to pay for what you want/need, eg. TDN reduced rates for advertisements for small businesses. "

Bob wrote on Apr 10, 2008 8:07 PM:

" I agree with Huh???? "

try again wrote on Apr 10, 2008 8:36 PM:

" i will keep it soft spoken so the talking hesd at tdn will post my blog.. nothing will change until the herion huts on commerce close.. i remove names so no ones agenda is affected... fffree press...rite "

K wrote on Apr 10, 2008 9:14 PM:

" Rachel: There are public restrooms available. The Merk building as well as the Columbia Bank building both have bathrooms. "

Rachel wrote on Apr 10, 2008 9:35 PM:

" Don't both close at five? "

So retro wrote on Apr 10, 2008 10:03 PM:

" Helping with the downtown issue.... how about get rid of all the low life's that hang out in the apartments above the stores and turn them into cool condo's for people to buy, like Portland does? "

Tex from Cougar wrote on Apr 10, 2008 10:26 PM:

" Open up downtown Longview to stupid ideas like cruising and it will really become a ghost town. I remember when cruising was allowed in the 80's and 90's--before they made Commerce a one way street--and all of the problems that it brought with it. Drunkeness, loud noise, drugs, fights, lewd conduct, rowdiness, vandalism, graffiti and an overall atmosphere of debauchery. It is what caused all of the businesses to leave downtown. Everyone feared for their safety and no one wanted to go downtown anymore. Bands of hooligans roamed the streets and caused all sorts of problems. Please push the city NOT to relax anything that has to do with anti-cruising, including taking down the signs. Let's not bring these problems back! "

TwentySomething wrote on Apr 10, 2008 10:56 PM:

" I see some great ideas! Here's why our average-income, small business shopping, sorta-green, family of 5 doesn't do much business in downtown Longview:
1. Where are you hiding the restrooms? Post some signs and act like you WANT to help me when I ask. With 3 kids, I NEED a place nearby to change the baby and take the kids potty.
2. Provide some kid-friendly shops or mini-parks. There is no place to let the kids play around, and no place for them to just sit down and take a rest. How about a toy store, a mini-park, a small children's museum, or an indoor pay-to-play area for young kids?
3. Provide a sense of security. Better lighting and a better security presence would help greatly. I feel like the shopowners all disappear after dark, and there would be no one around to hear me if I got into trouble.
4. Quit making me move my car! I would much rather take my time eating lunch and browsing shops, but the 2 hour parking limit means an afternoon downtown is out of the question. It gives the impression that you can't wait to get rid of me.
5.Provide us with some info! Where is an information booth with a listing of shops and their hours? I shouldnt have to drive up and down the street squinting at each window sign to figure out what is offered and if the store will be open. "

Rachel wrote on Apr 11, 2008 3:59 AM:

" To Tex from Cougar. Tex, stay in cougar, we have enough red necks in Longview now. "

Willamette Valley wrote on Apr 11, 2008 5:02 AM:

" The question has already been successfully answered and you have already seen the positive result. These same complaints used to apply to the aging and unprofitable Triangle Mall. The solution was to level it and to rebuild it so it would invite shoppers and businesses. All you have to do is look at what is going on "right" at the Triangle and compare that with what is going on "wrong" in your down town. So the choice becomes should you rebuild from the ground up or just let the aging "bad part of town" continue to slide or should you make efforts to try to make it into what 23rd Ave in Portland has become; a trendy upscale attraction? If you want to make it an attraction the first and second things that must go are the low-rent apartments and the pawn shops. Until those elements are remove the revitalization of your down town cannot proceed. This can be done through the simple acts. The city could enact a large tax on pawn shops which is justifiable in that all items must be cleared by the police when pawned. The city could likewise close down the low rent apartments through building code enforcement. Down town would loose these "profitable" venues, but how much would it gain in the long run by not having pawn shops and low rents as the anchor businesses? "

Parking Cops wrote on Apr 11, 2008 5:39 AM:

" One thing that would help the down town stores is if Longview Police would get rid of the stupid parling patrol. I know a lot of people that will not go down town to shop because of them, whenyou can go to WalMart and park and shop all day with no worries but go down town and park in a near empty parking lot but if you leave your car there to long some jerk drives up and gives you a ticket, My daughter took me shopping down there once and she kept looking at her watch saying I got to remember to move the car so we don't get a ticket. I told her then and and to this day I will never go back down there it is no fun shopping when you have to worry about walking all the way back to move your car to keep from getting a ticket. I really wonder does the city make money or lose money paying these guys to patrol the streets? I for one will stick to malls and big stores with lots of parking "

Rides wrote on Apr 11, 2008 5:49 AM:

" I still think they could improve the down town area by putting in a train, horse and buggy, rickshaws, etc. something to get people to come and spend the day riding getting off and spending money on food and other items these rides could go from the fair ground huge lot down commerce along the lake just make a huge loop so you could buy a day pass and just hop on and off as you please to get a ride down to the next area you want to shop or just hang out at. you know, stop for breakfast then ride to a store shop for awhile pick up a sandwich ride to the lake eat on the lake bank, hop back on for more shopping then back to your car to go home sounds like some thing for all ages then we wouldn't need all these senior centers they could run the rides along with the kids "

Billjr64 wrote on Apr 11, 2008 6:46 AM:

" Growing up in the Longview area in the 70`s & 80`s we spent alot of time in the downtown area, both cruising at night and shopping during the day. Suddenly all the businesses wanted us gone and banned cruising. Well we`ve grown up now and we`ll take our business where we feel at home and welcomed. "

COVER THE STREET wrote on Apr 11, 2008 7:53 AM:

" I THINK THAT COMMERCE SHOULD CLOSE IN COMMERCE COMPLETELY SO THAT THERE IS NO TRAFFIC TRVELING THE ROAD MAKE PARKING IN BACK AND HAVE A BREEZE WAY THROGH TO THESE PLACES THAT WAY THE ROAD COULD BE USED FOR MORE FUN THINGS FOR THE KIDS AND PEOPLE COULD SET UP INDOOR SHOPS WHY DOES THIS CITY NOT LOOK AT THE OTHER CITYS AND SEE WHAT THEY ARE DOING? THIS WOULD BE A GREAT IDEA, YOU CAN NEVER FIND PARKING ANYWAYS. I ALSO SAY GET RID OF THE APARTMENTS ABOVE THESE PLACES I USED TO WORK VERY EARLY IN THE MORING AND YOU TALK ABOUT SOME OF THE PEOPLE HANNING AROUND THERE I WAS SCARED TO BE OUT THERE BY MYSELF IN THE MORING IT IS BAD GET RID OF THEM AND CLEAN THE AREA IT HAS LOTS OF COOL THINGS WE COULD DO WITH THIS AREA. INSTAD OF BEING SLUM VILLE. "

ick wrote on Apr 11, 2008 8:00 AM:

" There are plenty of businesses open after dark.You have the casino that caters to 18yr olds. The fight club down the block that sponsors weekend street brawls. You have heroin huts that pop up in the alleys and are permanent in the apartments throughout commerce. Ooh and no police presence until the drunk hour arrives which is about 11:00 p.m. There is plenty of business downtown what are you all talking about? "

Tex from Cougar is Wrong wrote on Apr 11, 2008 8:19 AM:

" Commerce is a two way street. Maybe you shoud have some info on the town before you make a comment? "

Downtown wrote on Apr 11, 2008 8:26 AM:

" There are too many thrift shops downtown. The area should be rezoned to disallow them. At last count I counted 6 on just one block of commerce. Who wants to go hang out at a pawn shop/thrift shop for fun. Please get rid of them. "

New businesses wrote on Apr 11, 2008 8:33 AM:

" Get a new Regal cinema with stadium seating and lots of parking. Get a Barnes & Noble - those are open til 11:00. Get a full sized Macy's or other big department store - not a scaled down one like at Three Rivers Mall. Get a GAP, Old Navy, etc. Those would help people shop in Longview. "

I agree with MrBee wrote on Apr 11, 2008 8:35 AM:

" After all of the complaints from businesses downtown and all that needs to be done to make it more shopper-friendly, very few of the business owners are willing to actually DO anything about it.(See answers to Question #10) Well, gee...no wonder downtown is dead. "

Yeah.... wrote on Apr 11, 2008 8:42 AM:

" Downtown must get rid of the low income drug infested apartments before anything else. As long as those apartments are inhabited with druggies and etc downtown will continue to have problems. The posting regarding converting them to condo's is on the right track but that will also have parking consequences. Longview downtown could become the cities living room with some hard work and strict rental/ leasing policies so folks will feel safe and have a nice atmosphere. "

To Tex From Cougar wrote on Apr 11, 2008 9:10 AM:

" Commerce is not and never has been a one way street!!!! "

Citizen wrote on Apr 11, 2008 9:26 AM:

" Well, first off, it's plain to see that they are sticking to their century old rule re: "they don’t plan to hire any new employees". Keep the entire thing in the "family". What they would do with a $50K windfall? "D. Othe - 2 - 6% Invest in beautification / streetscape."

This is the biggest downfall. The street looks like a pit. Of course the TREES you destroyed will take 40 years to grow back... so you're going to have to think of SOMETHING to keep the smog and heat off that place. Not condusive to sitting and eating, walking or watching passers by trip on old worn out sidewalks with cracks wide enough to drop an elephant.

In fact the entire outlaying entrance looks like a pit with no trees and rotten run down buildings and millions of crummy car lots hawking you as you enter town. Who needs a $30K vehicle to get around a pit?

And since when do you call the public you want to poll "monkeys"? "

agree wrote on Apr 11, 2008 9:39 AM:

" i agree with "so retro" but instead of just eliminating the poor from down town, let's build some low income housing down on some land, say across from Foster Farms or something. i think having the landlords turn those upper apartments into flats is a great idea!! in fact, wasn't there an article in the daily news about someone who did that a couple of years ago? it would be nice if others would follow suit. of course, there would need to be safe parking for these new tenants and downtown shoppers. "

Former Commerce dweller wrote on Apr 11, 2008 9:47 AM:

" Low-rent apartments are great for LCC students and people with a low wage, like I was when I lived there. No way would I have wanted to live all the way out by Foster Farms because I worked downtown. Don't turn the apartments into expensive condos, please. Just screen the renters better. When I lived on Commerce, everyone in my building was checked out by the landlord and I thought my neighbors were all very nice. I remember a school teacher, a retired guy, a girl who played autoharp and an Army vet. "

No interest wrote on Apr 11, 2008 9:48 AM:

" There are a few reasons why I have no desire to shop down town, they are: the loosers in the apartments above the stores, and the lack of any decent stores. Most of commerce is all about thrift stores, sorry, but that doesn't interest me in the slightest. "

Judy wrote on Apr 11, 2008 9:51 AM:

" I do not want to be in the same area as those who live in the apartments on Commerce, they creep me out and scare me. If there was another place for them to go, that would be great. "

Let's go for it wrote on Apr 11, 2008 10:11 AM:

" Hey the condo idea sounds great to me! I'm sure parking could be figured out. "

Shopping Guru wrote on Apr 11, 2008 10:15 AM:

" I am a shopper - I shop for clothes, shoes, household decorative items, and gardening products on a regular basis. I do not shop downtown Longview with the exception of my fabulous hair guru who has recently relocated to Commerce. I find the businesses downtown to have rude help, to be all about themselves and not the consumer, and to offer products that are either cheap or way overpriced.
Instead of relying on other people to fix their mess, they need to look in the mirror and the eyes of their customers.
Great Customer service, products that are of great value and quality as well as stylish is needed. Customers shop where they feel welcome - not at a dirty rude shop - or an overpriced shop. "

Hello? wrote on Apr 11, 2008 10:32 AM:

" Put a Starbucks (or other coffee shop/hangout) with plenty of seating on Commerce. Old Navy is a great idea. Also, and indoor park/play area for kids would be wonderful and attrach families. Spread them out along Commerce to encourage a little walking between and window shopping. I think the idea of being open later in the evening and/or on Sundays is great also. "

Lolly wrote on Apr 11, 2008 10:46 AM:

" We had a business in Longview for several years and most of the complaints the we heard were concerning the parking. A parking structure would help tremendously. The hardest part was wanting to go to eat in the downtown restaurants but have to drive around to find a parking space always seemed to discourage the issue much less wanting to spend that time shopping. John & Mary Chilson have done alot at the Merk to keep the area there the best that they can, but until the parking issue is dealt with-the problem will still remain. "

seems to me wrote on Apr 11, 2008 11:09 AM:

" There used to be 24hour resturants down town , they now are chineese joints , almost no one goes in, Bon Marche, pennies , sears , used to be down town. Going to the movie matinee on the week ends was a thing to do. We had a swimin pool at catlin till the city thought it best to fill it in and make a stupid sprinkler park. Local swimining holes have disappeared as well.Tex from Cougar pull your head out , you have no clue . I had a good time in the 60's
All the big names went to the malls for the bigger dollar. Lonview fix your greedy parking laws. A parking garage in down town will not fix the problem.
Everett Wa. tried this got na da for it . When 2nd hand shops and pawn are allowed to start up down town , that should tell every one some thing .
The big stores follow the money.
Why does Bob's stilldoa pretty good business,cuz he caters to the people!! "

J. A. Long wrote on Apr 11, 2008 11:13 AM:

" Drop the parking ticket nonsense and use the parking patrol guys as security / public information officers that are friendly, visible, approachable, and known for being able to get a cop on scene via their radio in no time. Doing a major "face-lift" of the core area, as Seaside, Oregon did so sucessfully some years ago, would take vision, whole-hearted cooperation and daring: which would require strong leadership. We're still waiting for that. "

Just Me wrote on Apr 11, 2008 11:15 AM:

" I would love to buy a NICE 3 bedroom condo on Commerce. Would spend my money in local shops...but... I work...full time and often on the weekends. I NEED to shop after 5 and before 10 a.m. including the weekends. "

No Hank wrote on Apr 11, 2008 11:45 AM:

" Hank is hired by local business association to pressure the city to spend money on downtown. If Hank is not successful he is out of a job. This survey is not valid. It is not accurate. Hank surveyed the same old "we want the city to spend money on us crowd". Hank's business is selling sausages at markets around the area as a mobile vendor! There are hundreds of businesses in downtown and Hank surveyed 33 of them! The results were what the Hank wanted. "

To Twenty-Something, Williamette Valley, ick, Downtown, and Yeah wrote on Apr 11, 2008 11:49 AM:

" Amen. "

TwentySomething wrote on Apr 11, 2008 1:08 PM:

" Thanks. I was starting to wonder if anyone ever reads my comments. I figured I was just writing them to entertain myself, and maybe offset the complete lack of grammar, spelling, and punctuation on many of these comments. "

To Twentysomthing wrote on Apr 11, 2008 1:35 PM:

" You have a great idea about the play area. University Village in Seattle has an area in the middle of their outdoor mall (of course their shops are 1000 times better). Perhaps you should forward your suggestions to the Park Board? "

AHAHAH! wrote on Apr 11, 2008 5:56 PM:

" This article drags on to the point of leading the reader into a novel event. I could have presented the article in 3 letters "DOA". The only thing that is going to work for this downtown area are a bulldozer and a few dump trucks. You have tried everything, and some things have been tried twice with the same result. Unless someone can throw a few million to create a laser show equal to the one in Vegas, lets just all realize its over. "

Disgusted wrote on Apr 11, 2008 7:21 PM:

" To Shopping Guru!
If all you do is shop at local barber then go to the meetings and have all the businesses in the downtown area! I happen to know who your "hair person is and she isn't very good" As for the secondhand shops they are a business as well. The towns of Kelso/Longview have to many bars, to many hair salons oh and way to many secondhand stores. But again they are bringing business into town. "

To Disgusted wrote on Apr 11, 2008 9:20 PM:

" Please translate your post to English. It doesn't make sense. I believe shopping guru was referencing the lack of customer service at the businesses downtown.
Although that post was correct, I believe guru hit on an issue that is plaguing many businesses nationwide. As long as shoppers put up with the poor service, and continue to patronize a business despite pathetic help and poor quality, the businesses will continue their nasty ways.
However, if the customer base leaves due to the same reasons, bye bye bad business. Free Enterprise works - we do get what we pay for. Pay for bad service, you get it. Pay for good service, you get that too. "

Daily Art wrote on Apr 12, 2008 8:13 AM:

" More culture and art are needed to improve the quality of life in Longview. I was in the senior center last week and it was not crowded. There was some things going on but seem to be a very appropriate space. If more space is needed they just need to clean up and dispose of some of the junk in there. Downtown building owners need to make repairs and improvements to the buildings. Some of the shop owners I spoke with said business would improve if the building owners would fix the places up. "

Amazed wrote on Apr 12, 2008 9:32 AM:

" Start by disbanding the Downtowners group-they obviously don't really want to solve the problems. Businesses: figure out who your customers are and CATER TO THEM. I would love to save time AND support local businesses, but typically cannot find what I need here and I work for a living--the stores aren't open when I need to shop. If I want to go downtown on Saturday I can't because the silly Saturday market has closed access to the area. City of Longview, please step up and make downtown a nice place to be again--the business owners aren't going to do it. Their concern is, rightly, their profit margin; your concern should be the apeal of the area to its citizens. "

think about it wrote on Apr 12, 2008 9:38 AM:

" It would be great if the store were open until 7pm,there were no parking cops,there was more parking,there was a Old Navy plus several other anchor stores, your choice. But dream on, when I was a youngster I truly looked forward to coming to Longview. But with there lack of forsight they have lost alot of business to other areas. Plus we have become a very mobile world. With fuel becoming so high it might be a opportunity to draw people back to downtown Longview. The balls in you court Longview lets see what you can do with it. "

Idea Person wrote on Apr 12, 2008 9:45 AM:

" We have enjoyed the nice lunch restaurants in the downtown area...just would like them to stay open in the evenings as well as Sat. & Sun. Most shops close too early. The downtowners should take a look at older business districts like Camas which we discovered when we happened upon the Camas Days celebration. It was a great event that promoted the downtown with numerous vendors and a very fun beer and wine garden with live music that lasted into the late evening. We also enjoy visiting Centralia and Chehalis. They have numerous antique stores and very interesting shops and a McMinimuns theater pub! One of the older buildings has been converted into a private event center which caters to weddings and other smaller events but large enough cater to about 200 ppl. We don't need any more churches in our business district. Parking should be allowed in longer time frames but free parking 24/7 would cut off the ability for shoppers to get a spot. Building owners want to get income from their investments so that is why they have gotten "free" money from the govt to convert thier buildings into low income housing which by the way does not neccesairly mean drug problems ect. "

employee wrote on Apr 12, 2008 10:03 AM:

" I work downtown & own a house on 10th, so I live the downtown "experience". The main issue I see are the low-life, crazy, drug (legal or not) fiends. We frequently have to call the police to roust freaks yelling to themselves or others. We find them sleeping in our doorways and "eliminating" around our building. It scares our female employees and is just plain disgusting. The police need foot patrols and move the homeless shelter! Just drive down there and see for yourself. In closing, clean house & toss out the trash! "

Seahawk fan wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:47 AM:

" I totally agree with "employee" If downtown Longview wants to survive, and maybe even thrive, we need to make it a place where people want to bring their families and feel safe. We have way too many loonies that have "taken over" the Commerce area, and it is safe to say that a large number of shoppers stay clear of the area just so they don't have to feel threatened or uneasy about walking downtown. Beautification, longer hours, and great customer service are all wonderful, but if the downtown area doesn't foster a positive, safe atmosphere, it is going to be nearly impossible to revitalize downtown. "

idea person wrote on Apr 12, 2008 12:37 PM:

" The people in the homeless shelter are not allowed to use drugs or alchohol. I do agree that there should be a foot patrol in the area to let the others know that this is not a place to live. Where do you think we should send them? "

pottery girl wrote on Apr 12, 2008 12:58 PM:

" The guy that runs the Saturday market, Hank really needs to get over to Pendleton OR and see how their market is done. Starts at 3p.m. and runs til 8p.m. and the stores stay open because they have increased business. I was asked to have my items in our Saturday Market but I declined after going a couple times in the cool morning, or rainy morning. People want to enjoy the late afternoon/evening outside. Most people here go grocery shopping or to Walmart in the morning. "

real man wrote on Apr 12, 2008 1:23 PM:

" As a forty year old middle income male, downtown is an area that holds nothing for me. There are really nothing that attracts males to downtown. Bob's is great and I occasionally shop Treasure House. I think the Downtowners need to think outside the box, everybody has a saturday market now. There is nothing special at it. I love the Portland Saturday market, but I only go once a year. I shopped the Longview one last year and I spent more time finding parking than I did shopping. Oh and we call our downtown historic? I'm sorry but our downtown is pretty much the same you find anywhere in the country. Or worse. "

Longview Lifer wrote on Apr 12, 2008 6:24 PM:

" I grew up in Longview and remember going to Commerce when it had an event similar to a "saturday market". I know that many of the shops there are interesting, but just not well advertised. Maybe as a community we should utilize this space more and go back to the way we used to do things. My family would definitely go down there for events, like the car shows and markets. More of these would bring people to the area and eventually to shop. "

DOZER wrote on Apr 12, 2008 7:43 PM:

" NO HOPE "

? wrote on Apr 12, 2008 10:19 PM:

" Were is downtown Longview. "

out of the box. wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:18 PM:

" I don't shop downtown b/c, there's nothing there. There's nothing that draws anyone there. The business there don't make you feel welcomed, they don't pay attention to their customers and can be snooty at times. A lot of business are way over-priced. Why pay for something over-priced when you can get the same thing for a lower price somewhere else? There needs to be bigger business downtown, such as: The Gap, Old Navy, Hollister, etc. The current business that we have seem very cheap when you look at them from the outside and/or the inside. Parking is another factor, take the current parking lots that we have, turn them into multi-level parking structures w/a low fee, that way people can park and shop. Extend the hours that your open, and be open on Sundays. Also make an area that is kid friendly. Like a daycare type thing where parents can leave their kids while they shop. Also get more restaurants downtown, mostly all thats down there are Chinese places. There's lots of ideas that are so easy and possible, all that needs to happen is for people to think outside of the box. Get the younger generation more involved, the older generation does what they want and then can't figure out why the younger generation is always getting into so much trouble. There's nothing for the younger generation to do, the town is set up for older people. "

employee wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:49 PM:

" Ok Idea Person, my beef is not with the people IN the shelter, but with the many others who hang around, lie around, "eliminate" around. You can't expect to enhance the downtown when you allow people to sleep in doorways. You simply can't have it both ways. Downtown either needs to be welcoming to the locals or welcoming to the lowlifes. I suggest the newspaper do some real reporting on a very real local issue. What does go on after the sun goes down???? "

Shop-a-holic wrote on Apr 12, 2008 11:55 PM:

" I am very interested in assisting this community, I am from a very small town in Idaho, and I think that longview if fine, I have noticed some drug users...but they aren't scary. People make things up in their heads, Have ANY of you talked to one of those people, offered them help, or even just looked into their eyes. I am VERY against meth heads or 'tweakers' but they aren't out to get people. also the parking issue, but a garage that charges isn't a great idea, people don't like to pay to park...just extend the hours, and clear two or three lots for parking, people do like to get out and get air. As for the historic aspect, history is beautiful, but so is refinishing an antique...try polishing and painting up stuff, have like a local come and help the community...if we can get together like we did for the march in Dec. we could beautify our own town. "

To out of the box wrote on Apr 13, 2008 6:59 AM:

" Go to Commerce sometime and you will see these restaurants: The Brits, Kokomo Jo's, Country Folks Deli, Old Creekside Cafe, Lynn's, Thyme Square, Scoop's and Red Rooster Bakery (which serves breakfast and lunch). None of these are Chinese restaurants. I don't count the Canton because that's a bar. "

AOK wrote on Apr 13, 2008 8:39 AM:

" It's a lot better in Longview than it was years ago. At that time, we didn't have Three Rivers or the big boxes that have moved in. To tell the truth, I seldom shop in Portland anymore. I think the dept. stores like Sears could do better. I went in there last fall to buy something for a funeral and ended up in Vancouver because the local store had NOTHING. "

Downtown Worker wrote on Apr 13, 2008 10:30 AM:

" I work on Commerce and don't shop on Commerce. Not because I don't know what is there, because there is nothing there that interests me. I don't need anything from a dollar store or pawn shop. The area seems to cater to an older population. Getting rid of the tattoo shops is not a good idea, they're one of the only things that bring in a younger population to the area. Not everyone that gets a tattoo is a punk, just about everyone anymore has one. The food on commerce is great and is the only time I spend my money there. The parking isn't that bad, getting rid of the time restrictions would be a pleasant upgrade. As for the low income rentals, they are the low light of the area. Everytime I drive down Commerce most of what I see are "tweaker". The apts on Commerce should be remodeled and upgraded to trendy apts, with a designated parking stall and an extensive backround checking policy. People would want to live there, they would have friends who would want to visit them, friends who might even spend money on Commerce. We need to stop complaining about things and actually make some changes. "

Consumer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 12:29 PM:

" The only thing that matters to me is "quality merchandise for the lowest price". If it cannot be provided for in Longview then I will shop elsewhere. As far as I am concerned advertising is useless since we don't read them. We know where prices are high or low and whether the store is worthwhile going into. We operate our household as a business...the bottom line is what counts. Whether a merchant survives or not, we could care less. When prices go up we punish by buying less. If service is not provided, if clerks do not know the merchandise etc. we go elsewhere even if it means a trip to Vancouver or Seattle once a month or buying directly online. BUSINESS IS BUSINESS. "

Hardcase Hardballer wrote on Apr 13, 2008 3:33 PM:

" The biggest problem with downtown and Longview in general is that it is an absolute haven for every hardcase in Washington. "Come here and you will be cared for!" We have at least four halfway houses, a huge homeless shelter,bunches of nasty duplexes and our Commerce condos (and NO, these are no longer just for college kids, instead some house the mentally insane, sex offenders and some of the most dangerously schizophrenic people around.) I know these people need to go somewhere but this town is too small to house them all. Until we change this, there is no chance that Longview will ever be the quaint little town everyone seeks. So what are our leaders going to do about it? Add another "mental health" tax to our property taxes? A BETTER CHOICE WOULD BE TO CLOSE THE DOORS TO "HARDCASE SHANGRI-LA!" "

Parking issues wrote on Apr 13, 2008 5:32 PM:

" I agree completely with the parking issue as well. There are many, many parking lots in the area, but we the public cannot use them. You have to have a permit. Also the two hour parking this is a joke. I was at stylemasters getting my hair done and it took 3 1/2 hours. I could not go outside to move my car and I got a ticket for it. So in trying to help the local school by bringing my business to them I got fined for it. I really like the work they did on my hair, but will not go back because of the ticket I got. It has nothing to do with not finding a parking spot close to where you want to shop, it's finding one you can stay at for more than two hours to actually enjoy the downtown stores. "

Want somewhere to shop wrote on Apr 13, 2008 9:47 PM:

" I think Longview should take a page out of Portland's book and create a MAX type train that could bring people downtown to shop without having to worry about parking. also, they should bring in a best buy, red robins, jamba juice, nordstrom rack, century theater, and things like that so people will want to come downtown to spend money "

I got it... wrote on Apr 15, 2008 11:22 AM:

" I shop and work downtown and agree with most things said. However, it appears that every "improvement" that is done is only done half right. "They" say they want to improve it but they dont want to pay for it.

They bigger box stores would be nice but there would need to be some kind of parking structure with it. Later hours of operation and better quality stores would also improve the appeal of downtown.

I recently was downtown and after two and a half hours found a ticket on my car when I returned. I was not really suprised becuase that is how it is in other downtowns as well. But to my suprise the "ticket" was only a warning. So I found out from the parking "cop" that all first violations for overtime parking are warnings. I thought that was a great idea. He also informed me that there are all day passes available for customers.

What I dont get is how employees are offended that they have to pay for parking or have to walk a distance to find a spot that they dont have to pay for. Well who would you rather pay, the employee or the customer...??

It is up to the business owners to make downtown a better place. They can keep their shops open longer and they can help other business owners want to open up shops here.

The city needs to get rid of some red tape as well. "

DAMN YUPPYS wrote on Apr 20, 2008 7:36 PM:

" theres no reason to make it all yuppy down there, or to get rid of the thrift stores, If the thrift stores or the pawn shops and the low income apt. wernt there I would have never gone down there. currently I go there like 2x a wk to go shopping at the thrift stores, and get a bite to eat! The Gap or Old Navy, would be nice! "

There IS parking wrote on Apr 21, 2008 10:03 AM:

" Every survey LV has had done says we're rich with parking. The problem is that no one wants to walk. I really don't understand. You go to Portland, you grab the first parking space you see and walk to your destination. You go downtown in LV, and if the space directly in front of your destination is filled, you leave. I will resist commenting on how many of our residents would benefit from the exercise. "

Kristanna Boettcher wrote on Apr 21, 2008 4:19 PM:

" This is by far the most constructive news I've heard about the lack of economy in Longview. I've got to say, I am very proud of all those involved in this article for being so positive and proactive. This is a big step in the right direction, and I think with this kind of brainstorming, we are going to make even greater strides in the future. "

White Trash Pageant wrote on Apr 22, 2008 8:31 AM:

" They could keep it the way it is now and hold the White Trash Pageant in downtown Longview next year! Seems like City Council has been discussing this for 20 years. Maybe we should get "new" ones of them! "

Kristanna Boettcher- to TwentySomething wrote on Apr 22, 2008 2:40 PM:

" I find your comments are generally a nice civilized punctuation mark stuck into the ignorant sentences that make up these comment boards.

What we need is genuine proactivity, not a community of fully capable, grown adults complaining. As Nana might say "If it is to be, it's up to me."

There are so many great ideas that have popped up for improving the downtown area. Upgrading the apartments is a really wonderful idea, as is attracting consumers through increased knowledge about local businesses and making events such as farmer's market more convenient for them. Some debate about parking has come up, and it might be a good idea to prioritize the downtown area's prospective improvements before jumping into anything. As a young female consumer, I am much more likely to shop in an area where I've got a half-block walk to a given store than shop in an area with premium parking and obvious drug users hanging around unchecked.

We may want to start out with general goals, such as safety, convenience, and cleanliness, and find cost-effective ways to fix some agreed-upon problems within those respective areas.

I'm not saying I'm the one with all the answers, I'm just throwing out a few suggestions, as I think TwentySomething and other posters have tried to do, in the hopes that there are people out there with the intelligence to find an agreeable compromise and the initiative to go out and make changes themselves, rather than waiting for the almighty 'they.' "

Double Jeopardy wrote on Apr 25, 2008 6:26 AM:

" People want a parking garage, but don't want to pay one cent towards paying for it with taxes. How else would the city pay for it? We don't need a parking garage, we need to clean up the parking in the surrounding lots. There is plenty of parking around downtown, you just might have to walk, oh no, a block. Getting people to walk through downtown will also allow them to see other businesses they might not see otherwise. Parking restrictions should remain to allow short term parking for deliveries and such. Every business downtown draws customers. Some just draw the wrong type of customers that deter an even larger number of customers to the nicer establishments. Most importantly, the businesses themselves need to play a hands on role in making downtown better. It's their own businesses that will profit, duh. Easy fix for the apartments. Rezone downtown to strictly commercial (except columbia theatre, I think that's monitored more closely) Use the spaces to rent out small offices and such. There are many businesses out there that need office space but not the classy expensive fresh builds popping up everywhere. Finish the remodel of the downtown area with the historic look. Many of the buildings are in serious need of a facelift. Make them more uniform and inviting. Starbucks, smaller versions of GAP, O.N. Rotating weekly specials between businesses. BIG Front page stories TDN!! 250words:-( "