STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK

Comprehensive Park Plan • 2010 The mission of the Oregon Parks and Recreation Department is to provide and protect outstanding natural, scenic, cultural, historic and recreational sites for the enjoyment and education of present and future generations.

OREGON PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT 725 Summer Street N.E., Suite C Salem, Oregon 97301-0792 Information Center: 1-800-551-6949 egov.oregon.gov/OPRD/index.shtml

Title: State Capitol State Park, Parkwide Plan 2010

Prepared by: Kathy Schutt

Publication Rights: Information in this report may be copied and used with the condition that credit is give to Oregon Parks and Recreation Department. This report has been prepared for in-house use and will not be made available for sale. Photographs and graphics may not be reproduced for reuse without permission of the owners or the repositories noted in the captions.

Booklet Images: OPRD Archives 2010 – State Capitol State Park, Historic images from Salem Public Library Historic Photograph Collections, Salem Public Library, Salem, Oregon and OSU Archives Table of Contents

01: Plan Introduction and Summary ...... 1

02: History of the Park Site ...... 9

03: Park Context ...... 19

04: Park Assessments ...... 25

05: Park Visitors ...... 39

06: Goals for Park Management ...... 43

07: Interpretation and Way Finding ...... 45

08: Site Improvement Strategies ...... 57

09: Operation Park Management Strategies ...... 63

10: Appendices ...... 67

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 i ii STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Table of Maps and Diagrams

Site Improvement Plan...... 7

Parks and Open Space -- Vision 2020 ...... 23

Vegetation Plan ...... 33

Vegetation List ...... 35

Existing Honorary Features ...... 37

Site Improvement Plan...... 61

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 iii iv STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 01: Plan Introduction and Summary

Introduction State Capitol State Park became a new state replacing worn out landscaping, returning the park in 2008, under ORS 390.111, based fountains to seasonal operation, and adding on Senate Bill 632. The Oregon Parks and new signage and seating. At the same time, Recreation Department (OPRD) was given two new public restroom buildings and a the responsibility for managing the new park, new chlorination and lter system for Wall of which includes three smaller, existing park Water were constructed by the Department of areas -- Willson Park on the west, Capitol Park Administrative Services within the park. to the east and the Capitol Park Mall to the north of the Capitol building. Park Vision The vision for State Capitol State Park is to After passage of Senate Bill 632, OPRD and provide a park-like setting and memorable the Department of Administrative Services experiences for a broad set of visitors, at the began the process of transferring management seat of state government and within the heart responsibility for the park. In that interim of Salem; and to enhance visitors’ experiences time OPRD committed to complete a plan by showing them more about the history and that would direct the use, management and purpose of the place. improvement of the park into the future. State Capitol State Park will provide an OPRD The overall purpose of this plan is to provide State Park experience at the state’s Capitol. direction to guide the future management of This includes providing for the qualities one this park, and to communicate that direction would expect to nd at a state park, such as to the many agencies and groups that have a the natural, cultural, scenic and recreational vested interest in this park. This will enable opportunities that park visitors look for, as well future park management to be consistent and as the highest standards of cleanliness, safety will provide a solid basis for management and well-maintained facilities. decision-making as is needed. Park Roles Some work has already been completed at the park. Prior to the creation of the plan, The park has several distinct roles that overlap OPRD completed a number of needed with each other. Some of these roles are projects including the Tribal Walk of Flags, unusual for a state park, but they re ect the Fallen Workers’ Memorial, Capitol Fountain unique location, setting and purpose of this plantings, pruning overgrown vegetation, PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 1 site. Understanding the roles the park plays contribute to the network of parks and for visitors provides a strong basis for forming open spaces in central Salem. This park park management goals, objectives, strategies, will invite visitors to play and relax outside concepts and actions. and to enjoy the city. The Seat of State Government A Place to Welcome Diverse Visitors State Capitol State Park is the home of A broad set of visitors use the park now, Oregon’s state government. The park’s including neighborhood residents, college buildings, layout, features, setting and students and staff from the neighboring activities have been provided in a way Willamette University, nursery school that highlights and connects the central groups, vacationing travelers to the functions of state government with each capital and the city of Salem, cyclists other and with the citizens of Oregon. and pedestrians who are passing through, An Urban Park people coming to events, nearby of ce State Capitol State Park is located in workers, the legislature, the Governor and the core of the City of Salem and will their staffs.

2 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK A Place for Special Events administrative contacts, and to agency program The large open space in the center of staff, to help to assure that the plan will t the mall area of the park, along with the within the needs, parameters and constraints pavement in Court Street, offers space that apply to the park. for large events, staging areas for news coverage and public gatherings related to In the end, the plan is the vehicle for OPRD to political decisions and processes. This seek agreement with, the state Department of space also serves other support functions Administrative Services that owns the site, our related to state government or city services. partners at the City of Salem and city advocacy groups, and with the various state government What Will the Plan Do? commissions, committees and boards that oversee state lands in Salem. This document outlines a parkwide management and improvement plan for The Planning Process State Capitol State Park. Based on the vision and roles for the park, the plan provides an In late 2009, OPRD staff invited a understanding of and direction about: Stakeholders Group to join the planning The park’s history, context, features, spaces process. Members were recommended by park and circulation, management and/or directly requested to be Who the park visitors are and how they included. They included:  would like to experience the park Department of Administrative Services  Parkwide management goals, Willamette University  Park strategies, concepts, themes and Go Downtown Salem  “styles” for interpretation, way- nding, Oregon Capitol Foundation  open space, plantings, site furniture and Legislative Administration  other installations; and Salem Chamber of Commerce   The management of visitors experiences, Salem Keizer Transit  coordination with partners, and the care Can Do Neighborhood  and protection of the park. Salem Public Works Salem Planning The park plan links up with the site’s history Salem Vision 2020 and with the City of Salem’s plans for the Capitol Mall Patrol downtown and surrounding area. It attempts to Mission Mill dovetail with plans that have previously been completed for the State Capitol Building and In January, 2010, the Stakeholder Group met Court Street, the west end of Willson Park, the with OPRD and was briefed on the planning Department of Transportation Building site, project. They were asked to describe what Willamette University and the Department of the State Park might mean to them and how it Administrative Services’ Capitol Mall Area. might be improved for all.

The planning process provided a forum for A Technical Advisory Group was identi ed discussing the future of the park with our and invited to offer written comments. partners and other interested groups. We They included: worked with a large Stakeholder Group Department of Transportation Support that represented city and state government, Services the neighborhood, Willamette University Labor & Industries Building and other interest groups. We also reached State Library Building out to a larger mailing list of technical and Public Services Building

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 3 Department of Administrative Services, Creating a process for evaluating requests Parking for installations and remembrances Salem Landmarks Commission Understand what the park means to others, Department of Administrative Services, what it should become and what each Planning group desires, and Salem horticultural expertise Making corrections on place names, dates Commission for Tribal Services and references, where needed. Marion County Historical Society Travel Salem Appendix B outlines the comments received. Salem cycling advocacy Park History, Context, Features, Appendix A lists organization and Spaces and Circulation governmental group representation in the The park’s historic importance, as the Stakeholder and Technical Advisory Groups. “seat of state government” and its position within the center of the city contribute to an Input was also sought from OPRD program understanding of what this place is all about. staff including the Interpretative, Heritage This document highlights the progression Conservation, Bicycle, Planning, Park of the site from the earliest concept of the Operations and the department’s Executive place as a state Capitol site to today. The plan Team. identi es important historic park features and All three groups provided comments on spaces for protection into the future. The plan the initial draft plan document in summer also describes and discusses the relevance of 2010. The nal draft plan will go before the park within its central Salem surroundings. the Capitol Planning Commission and the Understanding and preserving the key visual Capitol Project Review Board in the fall of and spatial qualities of the park areas are 2010. A nal plan will go before the Oregon essential for providing enjoyable visitor Parks and Recreation Commission in 2011, experiences of the place. The plan maps and for their approval. OPRD staff also visited discusses these qualities, to ensure that park with the City of Salem, the Salem Vision 2010 improvement proposals will enhance, rather group and other groups regarding the plan, as than diminish, that experience. requested.

The Stakeholder Group, Technical Group and Park Visitors staff comments covered a number of issues, An understanding of who uses the park was including: described by stakeholders and by staff who see Understanding who visits the park the park on a daily basis. Their observations Considering security issues in all aspects of tell us there are currently several types of park park management and improvement visitors, based on how they use the park. The Improving city street crossings plan aims to identify key user groups and to Honoring neighborhood requests to open provide for their needs as is appropriate to the the view along Center Street overall use of the park. Including the surrounding city features and attractions in the park’s way- nding Visitor groups include:  information, and accommodating city bike Salem residents relaxing, enjoying the routes through the park setting and the water features  Interpreting the history of the place and the Willamette University students and staff, context of the state Capitol walking to the downtown and relaxing

4 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Nursery school groups from the YMCA 10. Undertake management practices that are and nearby churches on outings sustainable, feasible and cost effective Travelers coming to see the state Capitol with the highest standards for cleanliness, and/or visiting the city condition and appearance Cyclists and pedestrians who are passing through or coming to the park Interpretation and Way-fi nding People attending a variety of events at the Strategies park The Interpretive Chapter of this document  Nearby of ce workers on breaks or at includes a special consideration of how to lunch time actively improve visitors’ understanding  News organizations covering major of, and connection to, the park through legislative actions interpretation, and through improved  Political groups/individuals speaking and orientation, also known as “way- nding”. intercepting others Teen-agers and young adults hanging out Interpretive themes and stories about the in Willson Park importance of the site over time have also been People conducting state business or identi ed. The recommended interpretive business with a state agency themes are outlined in this plan. These are the key messages to be communicated. Goals for Park Management Interpretive stories, and panel and pamphlet Based on the vision and roles for the park, wording will be selected and developed to visitor needs and park assessments the plan communicate the themes. Media, such as sets out a series of parkwide goals. signs, exhibits, publications, etc., and other 1. Manage the park to recognize, respect and strategies for delivering the themes and stories reinforce the existing design elements of to the visitor have been identi ed, along with the three park areas, except for the far west a recommended schedule for implementation. end where changes are appropriate. Site media will be placed and designed to 2. Manage the park to support all four park t harmoniously into the park-like setting, roles. historic layout and features. 3. Retain and enhance a “park-like” setting that is relaxing and beautiful. Site Improvement Strategies 4. Support the needs of a diversity of visitors Site improvement recommendations are and their desired experiences based on a set of strategies that attempt to 5. Link the state park with neighboring balance the existing qualities and meaning of and nearby places, through bike routes, the park with the aim of ful lling the vision walkways and pedestrian-friendly street for the future of the place. The “parkwide” crossings improvement strategies are summarized here. 6. Recognize and include elements from The following General Park Plan map lays overlapping and adjoining plans that t out what the park would look like when all with the goals of this park of the recommendations are complete. Faint 7. Manage the park to be safe yet welcoming, lines show the existing layout and location enjoyable and visually open of features that are proposed to be changed. 8. Enhance visitor understanding of the place The Site Improvements Chapter offers the through interpretation and way- nding map in a scale that is easier to read. It also 9. Provide clear and consistent strategies for offers Vegetation Management Plan and Site working with our management partners Furnishing Strategies.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 5 Parkwide Improvement Strategies 8. Open vegetation where needed to create a 1. Protect the Capitol Mall open space from more welcoming and safe feeling. intruding buildings and other installations 9. Provide spaces for events and gatherings to as part of the existing design intent for that support desired visitor experiences and the park area. roles of the park. 2. Protect and enhance the existing layout, 10. Rehab plantings and add color spots and landscape design, and historic character of ground cover. Provide attractive benches, the three park areas within the state park. tables, trash cans, lighting and other site 3. Provide areas within the park that suit the furnishings to enliven views and enhance a needs of different user groups, to support beautiful, park-like setting. visitor diversity and desired experiences. 11. Provide universal access throughout the 4. Retain the east/west axial view from park to provide for a diversity of visitors the Capitol Building to the Commerce and desired visitor experiences Building and to the Executive Services Building as part of the existing design Specifi c Park Management Strategies element for that park area. This chapter focuses on speci c strategies and 5. Fit interpretative information stops and actions for implementation at the park. These way- nding signs into effective “capture” actions are organized under the following points in the park, for grabbing the topics. attention of visitors to enhance visitor understanding of the place. 1. Understandings with management partners 6. Encourage city improvement of pedestrian 2. Review and installation of approved crossings at street intersections and recognition features and artwork enhance Winter and Chemeketa Street bike 3. Safety and security routes through the park to better link the 4. Facility use and events park with its surroundings. 5. Vegetation management 7. Recognize and incorporate plans from: 6. Garden Pride Building Capitol Building Master Plan, Greenworks 7. Visitor services Plan for west end of Willson Park, ODOT 8. Sustainability site plan, Willamette University master plan, City of Salem way- nding strategy and bike routes that match this plan’s goals.

6 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK PM7 New Mini New State Capitol State Park Crossing Plaza Interpretive Center St NE Display Center St NE

PM3 PM3 Site Improvement Plan

PM2 ODOT Courtyard Labor and Redesign PM3 PM3 ODOT Sprague

Industries Fountain KEY Interpretation Panels

Orientation Signs PM5 PM5 Other Site Features (Statues, Fountains)

Buildings PM4 PM3 PM3 Bike Bike PM3 Project Code Racks Racks PM4 PM3 Paved Plazas PM3 The PM4 Move Restrooms Move Fine Graveled Areas / or Paving Winter St NE

Park Mall Capitol St NE Existing Trees

New Trees

Trees to be Removed Alternative Restroom Location Restroom Alternative Public State PM3 PM3 Color Spot Planting Beds Services Library Groundcover and Shrubs

Grass

PM5 Sunken Terrace PM5 Crossing Areas

Wall of Water 50 100 North PM3 0 150 PM3 PM3 PM3 Restore Potential Relocate WP13 PM1 Historic Honorary Childrens’ New Mini New New Liberty Fountain Feature Site Statues Crossing Plaza Court St NE Crossing Court St NE Bell Site Extend Fence Low Wall Plaza Low Wall

Low Wall Low Wall WP4 CP6 CP6 WP2 WP5 New New WP4 Grass Grass Panels Panels CP5 PM3 PM3 CP2 WP14 Garden WP8 Statue WP8 Pride

Capitol Statue WP9 WP3 WP11 WP1 Waite Willson Park WP10 Fountain CP4 Walk of Flags WP7 Park CP3 CP1 WP6 WP8 Capitol Statue Columns WP8 Building Cottage St NE Waverly St NE Waverly

WP4 WP5 CP6 WP4 CP6

New Convert west Gazebo New Mini Liberty New Path New Plaza & Expand Circuit Interpretive end to Crossing Plaza Bell State St NE & Pavement Interpretive Rider Plaza Display new layout WP12 at Statues Display

Proposed Willamette University Gateway 8 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 02: History of the Park Site

Above, the 1876 Capitol building (left) and a painting which shows how the first Capitol building of Salem might have looked (right).

This chapter provides a broad understanding rivals. Eventually, the Salem proponents won of the changing character and function of the the political argument. In 1852, Congress “seat of state government”. Understanding con rmed Salem as the Territorial capital. the history of the park helps to guide what to While designation of the capital was disputed protect for the future while integrating site by supporters of the contending Willamette improvements into the park. The elements to Valley settlements, the Territorial Legislature protect are described at the end of this chapter. met in Salem, generally, from 1850 onward. The chapter also provides information to (Based on Salem Online History, Oregon State support interpretation so that the public can Capitol and the Capitol Mall.) better understand the meaning of the place. Those stories are described in the interpretive The state Capitol site was a part of the original chapter. vision for the City of Salem as early as 1846 when it was laid out by William Willson, a This brief, historical overview is based on former member of the Methodist Mission and several key sources of information, including prominent Salem citizen, in his plat. Many the Salem Library Historic Photo Collection, of Salem’s most important mid-19th century Salem History On-line, State Archives institutions were located within this plat, photos and maps, and the Oregon State including the Methodist Church, Oregon Capitol National Register of Historic Places Institute (later Willamette University), county Nomination. courthouse, post of ce and Capitol. At the heart of the plat was a three-block-long, open 1846-1935: The First Two Capitols space labeled “Willson Avenue”, with a plot From the time Oregon was declared a Territory clearly marked for the “Capitol building” at one of the United States in 1848, controversy end and a plot for the “county courthouse” at surrounded the naming of Salem as the seat the other. “Willson Avenue” included three city of government. Oregon City, the seat of the blocks measuring approximately 300 feet by Provisional Government, and Corvallis were 1100 feet and was bounded by Court, Church, State and Capitol Streets.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 9 The Willsons donated Block 84, indicated on the plat for the Capitol, to the Territory for the construction of the 1853 Territorial Statehouse, and conveyed the rest of “Willson Avenue” to the City of Salem in 1853, as a city park. At some point, “Willson Avenue” was renamed Willson Park. By 1855 the Statehouse had burned down and it was not until 1876 that construction of the second Capitol began. Between 1854 and 1875 state government and the legislature used various downtown locations for of ces and meeting places.

The 1853 Statehouse and the second State Capitol, completed in the early 1890’s, faced west toward the Willamette River. The second Capitol also faced the Marion County Courthouse, constructed in 1873, just west of Church Street. In 1903 a federal post of ce building was constructed on the west end of “Willson Avenue”. To the east, across Waverly Street from the early Capitols’ site, the Supreme Court Building was completed in 1913, the Agriculture Building (later the Commerce Building) in 1929 and the Justice Building in 1930, creating a tri-building, eastern terminus to the state layout. Original Plan of Salem (above) by William H. Willson. Below, a lantern slide shows the second Oregon State Capitol constructed in 1876.

10 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Images from the second capitol dome show a changing landscape around the capitol.

Oregon’s early Capitols followed conventional with a gazebo. The park was lled with dozens patterns for the statehouses of their day. The of young coniferous and deciduous trees. A 1853 building was a simple, rectangular, 1900-1915 photo, looking east from Cottage Greek revival style building. The upper and Street toward the Capitol, shows the Breyman lower bodies of the legislature were housed on Fountain in the foreground, and an east-west separate oors. This Capitol was described as walkway with curving diagonal walks and a a two story, wooden building, with a west-side gazebo. entrance walk from Summer Street, then a dirt road. It was set within open, grassy meadows An early aerial photo of the building foundation with very little other surrounding development. and stairs of the demolished second Capitol , presumably following the re, shows Willson Construction for the second Capitol building Park and the Capitol site grounds as one began in 1872, but the dome was not completed cohesive layout with east-west walkway and a until the early 1890’s. This building located series of curving, crossing diagonal walkways the House and Senate at opposite ends of the along it. The original Waite Fountain, installed main story in a much larger Italian Renaissance in 1912, is in place, in this photo, where Winter Revival style building.

Based on period photos from the Salem Library, the following can be seen: An 1870 photo, shown above left, shows Willson Park with a white board fence surrounding an apparent cow pasture. Young street trees can be seen along Court and State Streets.

Three photos, taken from the dome of the second Capitol between 1894 and 1906, show a progression of park development from a simple, narrow north/south walkway across the park, to a large circular and “x” pattern walk, shown above right, to a strong, central, east-west walk

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 11 1935-1938: Construction of the Third Capitol After the second Capitol burned in 1935, the state considered several sites in Salem for a much enlarged building and a new layout and orientation. Bush’s Pasture (later to become a park), Willamette University and Candelaria Heights sites were considered. A fairly detailed concept was worked out for the university site just to the south of the current Capitol site. The concept abandoned the west- facing orientation of the rst two Capitols and turned to face north. When it was determined that the university site would not be available, the Capitol Reconstruction Commission, a body convened by the state to design a new Capitol, addressed how they might apply the new concept to the Capitol grounds already owned by the state.

In addition to the north-facing orientation, the Capitol Reconstruction Commission was interested in a new ceremonial approach to the The Breyman Fountain near Cottage Street Capitol entrance within a formal grouping of with early Capitol building in background. anking buildings. This approach had become popular for civic buildings during this time. The national Capitol and mall are also based on this style of building and street placement. Street intersected with the park. A gazebo The City of Salem offered a portion of Willson appears in the middle of the main walkway in Park to the state to increase the size of the Willson Park. available Capitol site. The last needed parcel fell into place when the two blocks to the The Breyman Fountain was placed near north between Winter and Capitol Streets were Cottage Street, in 1904, where it stands today. pursued for acquisition. It is the only remaining historic object from this period in Willson Park. The fountain The State Capitol Reconstruction Commission was a gift to the city from a prominent held a national design competition for the third businessman, Werner Breyman. Capitol Building and its site, with a required north-facing entrance and strong interest in the The “Circuit Rider’ statue was commissioned formal mall approach. The winning design by an early State Highway Commissioner as a was a “stripped-down”, modernistic style, memorial to his father, a Methodist Episcopal based in classical form that was submitted minister who died in 1917. It was completed by the rm of Trowbridge and Livingstone, and installed in 1923 at the west front of the out of New York. It was constructed in the old Statehouse, close to State Street on the Depression with funding assistance from south side. (The statue was later moved. See the Public Works Administration. The State above.) Library, Public Services and Transportation Buildings were eventually built on the blocks 12 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK to the north in the same style as the third Capitol. This Capitol was completed in 1938. The State Library Building was completed in 1939. The Public Services Building was constructed in 1950 and the Transportation Building the next year. The post of ce building across the street from Willson Park was replaced with a modern structure in1937 that was built in a style similar to that of the third Capitol.

George Otten, the State Highway Department landscape engineer, completed the landscaping plans for the new Capitol mall, working with the architectural rm Trowbridge and Livingstone and the local rm, Whitehouse and Church. Period air photos show the north mall was constructed according to the architects’ site plan while Capitol and Willson Parks were kept much as they had been since the second Capitol had burned.

The site was described in the Oregon State Capitol National Register Nomination. The site plan included a central sunken plaza with a grassy terrace and surrounding walkways, across Court Street from the Capitol entrance and south of Chemeketa Street. Low stairways

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 13 led down to the sunken plaza and were also “Privet, in fact, was used liberally in the used for the approach to the Capitol at its landscape scheme because it could be shaped north, east and west entrances. The plaza so easily into cubic borders complementing replaced Summer Street from where it had the building’s geometric volumes. Whereas run north-south between the two residential box hedges were used to line sidewalks and blocks that had been acquired for the project. staircases, the foundation plantings eventually East and West Summer Streets were created introduced were generally native shrubs, anking the plaza, with at-grade, head-in such as rhododendrons, azaleas and the State parking along them. This portion of the plan Flower, Oregon grape. The latter carried the was completed in 1938. Two more blocks, precedent of proclaiming State identity from farther to the north were eventually acquired the building to the surrounding landscape. In and cleared. East and West Summer Streets east and west park areas on either side of the were extended one additional block to the Capitol, areas of lawn are enriched by native north with anking trees, walks and parking. conifers and a variety of specimen trees, the Chemeketa Street remained, running east-west former including Douglas r, spruce, red cedar, across the grounds. The intended result was a and Port Orford cedar; the latter including wide and unimpeded view of the north face of linden, gingko, horse chestnut and Empress the Capitol from Center Street. trees. Maples and holly also were staples of the informal landscape plan.” Selection of plant species and their placement in the park was deliberate and intentional, as The current double row of ornamental cherry Elizabeth Potter noted in the Oregon State trees was not a part of the design during this Capitol National Register Nomination (1988): time.

The “Circuit Rider” statue was moved to its current location in Capitol Park where it After the 1962 Columbus Day storm, the park was redesigned by Lloyd Bond and Associates.

14 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK remains as the focal point for that portion of the park. The gazebo was removed to make way for the new Capitol’s west entrance.

Changes After the 1930’s The statues of Jason Lee, founder of the Methodist Mission in Oregon, and Dr. John McLoughlin, ranking of cial at the original Fort Vancouver, were installed in Capitol Park, in 1953, west of “The Circuit Rider”, anking the east-west axis walkway on opposite sides. These statues are duplicates of bronzes installed in the national Capitol in 1952. “The Circuit Rider” was turned 180 degrees to the west to face the two new statues. The statues are joined by a placement of portions of columns from the demolished second Capitol. In the same area of Capitol Park, fragments of the brick columns from the second Capitol were assembled from the rubble of the Statehouse re in 1935, and were permanently mounted for display.

The 1962 Columbus Day storm had a devastating effect on the trees and Waite Fountain, in Willson Park. There was, reportedly, less damage in Capitol Park, The Capitol Mall prior to development of the although “The Circuit Rider” was knocked over parking garage. and had to be reinstalled and repaired. The City of Salem attempted to rehabilitate Willson Park, but within a few years the city deeded the park to the state to become part of the state Capitol fountain. A new layout of curvilinear walkways grounds, without making much progress. This was installed throughout most of the park, with created the Capitol grounds between Waverly geometric exposed aggregate panels at the west and Cottage Streets. end.

Storm damage to the park was so extensive Sometime after the Post Of ce Building was that the park was redesigned, rebuilt and abandoned in 1976, the building was taken over largely replanted by the state under contract by the state, to become the Executive Services by Lloyd Bond and Associates. Much of the Building. This provided a state building at the current layout of walkways, lawn panels and western terminus of Willson Park. plantings are the result of that plan, except for a few remaining trees. The east-west axis In 1982, a new gazebo was installed, in the walkway was replaced by a central grass oval, spirit of the original gazebo that had stood in although the westerly view from the Capitol various locations in Willson Park since before was retained. The original, cylindrical Waite the turn of the century. Fountain that once stood along the axis was The Capitol Fountain was installed at the north replaced by a low, modernistic pool and end of the mall in 1980.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 15 The maintenance and heating/cooling building north front. In place of the sunken terrace of known as the Garden Pride Building, located lawn, the south half of the south block of the at the east end of Capitol Park, is thought to mall adjacent to Court Street was con gured have been constructed in the 1930’s or 1940’s. as a depressed plaza of unitized pavers. It shows up on an early 1950’s Sanborn Fire Approximately 150 square feet, the paved Insurance map, and from it’s style appears to plaza is primarily a public gathering space, be from the earlier two decades. The building but, visually, it recreates the function of the may be partially constructed from salvaged original sunken terrace in heightening the vista materials from the second Capitol, but this has of the monumental building at close range. It not been proven. The building is important to is furnished with a water feature consisting the character of this park area, and as a base of three staggered rows of colossal straight for park administration and management. spouts paralleling the street front. The mall re- landscaping preserves the spirit of the historic Capitol Park Mall Redevelopment axial plan in featuring a central two-block- The mall between Court and Center Streets long green bordered by trees and a forecourt was redeveloped for an underground parking to enhance the front of the Capitol.” Oregon garage in 1991. The grassy panel, and East State Capitol National Register Nomination, and West Summer Streets were excavated Elizabeth Potter, 1988. and rebuilt. Trees were removed or moved, except for those that stand within the grounds Recent Additions immediately surrounding the four state of ce After the parking garage construction there buildings. Capitol Fountain was relocated. have been a few minor additions to the park, The Wall of Water and its paved plaza were including two restroom buildings on the east installed as part of the new project. The double side of the mall above the Chemeketa Street row of ornamental cherry trees was introduced entrance, that were built and funded by DAS at this time, on the east and west edges of the in 2009/2010. The Walk of Flags surrounding mall. the large grass oval and the Tribal Walk of Flags fronting the west steps to the Capitol The access to the parking garage was provided in Willson Park were installed in the last few by routing Chemeketa Street underground, years. Several small statues and features have leaving an unbroken, two-block, formal, grassy also been installed throughout the park, along mall between Court and Center Streets upon with several commemorative trees. completion. National Register of Historic Places The plan for landscaping the parking structure A portion of the current state park was surface adhered to the strict bilateral symmetry nominated and admitted to the National and the long approach centered on a focal Register of Historic Places in 1988. The point, the north entrance to the Capitol center of the nomination is the 1938 Capitol. building. The current Capitol is the only “stripped down classical” Modernistic style Capitol building in “The open lawn that was traditional for the the country. The boundary of the nomination long axis of the mall was re-established along encloses 14.5 acres, including the block with with bordering sidewalks and an additional the Capitol with its parks on the east and west, element, diagonal walks to facilitate cross- and the south half of the mall, roughly between mall pedestrian traf c. A tree planting scheme Chemeketa Street and Court Street. The third was devised for the east and west margins of Capitol site includes the former location of the mall to frame the vista to the Capitol’s

16 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Oregon’s rst two Capitols, commemorative Other objects in the Capitol Park area important works of art and landscape characteristics that in the Capitol’s history are the statues of Dr. contribute to the signi cance of the property. John McLoughlin and the Reverend Jason Lee The area also includes the remaining portion which are duplicates of bronzes in Statuary of the original, public open space, known as Hall in the nation’s Capitol, and a grouping “Willson Avenue” that was depicted on the of column sections from the old Statehouse 1846 town plat. of 1876. However, because these features represent commemorative activities, post- The historic period of signi cance for the dating the historic period of signi cance chosen nomination covers the four years of the for this nomination, they are not counted current Capitol’s planning, design and as contributing features at present. Their construction, 1935-1938. The north plaza is signi cance is nonetheless veri ed by inclusion the key landscape element for the north-facing in the discussion.” Elizabeth Potter, Oregon Capitol. The external grand stairway, with its State Capitol National Register Nomination. free-standing bas-relief panels or stelae, are 1988. also important contributing elements to the nomination. Conclusions “In addition to the Capitol Building, several This brief historic overview has led to a few related landscape elements are counted important conclusions about which features and as separately contributing features of the areas of the park should be protected for the nominated area. These are as follows: future. 1) the set of colossal sculptural stelae 1. First, the Capitol block with its east-west commemorating the Lewis and Clark axis (including the sites of the rst two Expedition and Oregon Trail migrations Capitols and the original Willson Park) and carved by Leo Friedlander and situated at the mall with its north-south axis represent the base of the Capitol’s front steps, the full extent of the Capitol history at this 2) the north plaza, or sunken terrace opposite site. The open spaces and axes associated the front of the Capitol, including street with these areas should be protected rights of way on east, south and west sides from intruding, large scale installations, comprising a total of 3.42 acres, (including tree placement) especially 3) the Capitol grounds, an area of 11.07 anything that might overpower the views of acres containing the last vestige of historic the Capitol along the axes. The open space Willson Park remaining in public open of the north plaza and grassy panels, and space, the anking East and West Summer Streets 4) “The Circuit Rider,” an heroic bronze should also remain. equestrian statute produced by noted American sculptor Alexander Phimister 2. To preserve the historic character of Capitol Procter which has been associated with the Park with its leafy canopy, some remaining Capitol site since its installation there in trees from prior to the third Capitol, early 1923, and walkway layout and “The Circuit Rider” 5) the Breyman Fountain, a memorial to should remain, allowing only minor changes pioneers erected in 1904 on the west axis that are compatible with that character. This which let to the front of the old Statehouse. is the site of the rst two Capitols. The column remnants sit very near the location of the rst two Capitols, making their setting a prime spot for telling the story

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 17 of those earlier buildings. The site of the 6. To retain the historic character that is statues of Lee and McLoughlin is also unique to each of the three park areas, the relevant for the interpretation of periods arboretum-like collection of plantings in earlier than that of the current Capitol Capitol Park from an early period, and in Building. Willson Park from the 1960’s with some remaining older trees, should continue as 3. The current character of Willson Park, the basis for future plantings and plant based on a design and construction from replacement. The more formal, geometric the 1960’s, is about 50 years old now, plantings on the mall should also continue, is relatively intact and should be largely although from a much more recent period. retained. The current layout continues The Capitol Fountain and Wall of Water to preserve an east-west visual axis that Fountain have become “new traditions” connects the current Capitol with original that have great popularity and add a lot to Breyman Fountain and a view to the west. the liveliness and beauty of the mall and Changes at the far west end are appropriate should be retained. to better accommodate present day use and circulation, as indicated in the Greenworks 7. The Garden Pride Building is not likely to Plan. be historically important, but is important to the visual character of that part of the 4. The grand, north Capitol stairway and park. Vinyl windows could be replaced its free-standing carved marble walls are with more appropriate wooden windows, important to retain as key historic site and any portions of the building that hail features that are distinct from the building from the 1930’s and 1940’s could be itself. Proposals to rebuild the north identi ed and retained, if possible. When stairway should retain the original stairway considering future changes to the building, intent and the original carved walls. how those changes might affect the visual character and remaining earlier elements 5. Some trees apparently still exist within should be examined. the park from early periods. Although it is impossible to keep trees forever, it 8. Although a gazebo has stood in various would be helpful for interpretation to spots within Willson Park, it is not better understand which trees these may essential to the historic character of this be. Once identi ed, some of these trees park area. Retaining it, or moving it to might be given extra attention and special another site in Willson Park would be measures for protection and longevity. acceptable given this history. Some may be eligible for heritage tree status and this should be considered.

18 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 03: Park Context

Location in the City The original location for the state Capitol was route to work, walking and biking, and a place selected on a low rise, looking to the west to to relax and recreate. the Willamette River, not far from the other early settlements and institutions of the day. State and Center Streets are the major The city has grown up around the Capitol eastbound arterials and Marion Street is site. It is still an important part of the center the westbound, in the area of the park. 12th of Salem, bene ting from and contributing to and 13th Streets are the major north/south surrounding buildings, parks and activities. arterials. The state highway is a couple of (See map at end of the chapter.) blocks to the south and several blocks to the west, connecting the city center to the coast, The State Park is situated to the east of the Portland and the rest of the Willamette Valley. downtown hub, and north of Willamette University, Mission Mill, Bush’s Pasture The Park and Open Space Network Park and the hospital grounds. Church Street, to the west of the park, is aptly named with This part of Salem is rich in parks, open four major churches including the historic space and riparian corridors for recreation and Methodist Church. Several other major habitat. State Capitol State Park becomes the churches dot the city center. The popular easternmost element of that network and is the Saturday Market is held on state parking lots jumping off point for boulevard connections to the north of the park. Several state buildings farther to the east and north. line Summer Street to the north of the park. All of these places offer opportunities of interest To the south, Bush’s Pasture Park frames the for visiting the park. city center network of parks. The grounds of Willamette University and the hospital offer Residential neighborhoods surround and pleasant, public, open spaces for cycling support the park to the east and north, beyond and walking, and connect the city center the extensive campus of state government with the residential districts beyond. The buildings. The historic South Central and redevelopment of the State School for the Fairmont neighborhoods lie to the south Blind will hopefully contribute even more beyond the university and hospital. These open space and will allow access along the neighborhoods look to the park as part of their creek. PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 19 To the west, the Mill Race links the southern routes, along with better orientation and areas by trail to City Hall Park and will soon support amenities like bike racks and signs. continue under Liberty Street to Riverfront They want to improve the routes through Park through the redevelopment of the Boise and around the State Park. OPRD is Cascade complex. Riverfront Park frames the working toward those ends. park network on the west side of city center. In the next few years, a bike/pedestrian bridge  State Capitol Master Plan, 2009 is planned to connect Riverfront Park across A new master plan for the expansion the slough to Minto-Brown Park with its many and retro t of the Capitol Building was miles of cycling, mountain biking and walking released recently by the State of Oregon. paths. This work determined that building expansion would not result in an extended Existing Salem bike routes converge on State footprint on the State Park site, but rather Capitol State Park from the north via Winter would be contained underground and and Summer Streets, from the east and west within other spaces in the building. The via Chemeketa Street and from the south via underground rehabilitation work would Winter Street. These routes and others provide occur at the north entrance to the Capitol, leafy, attractive avenues for pedestrians out for and would include a reworking of the exercise, trips to shop and eat out, and getting stairway, drop off zone, and Court Street to and from work each day. The State Park pavement and cross-section. These becomes a crossroads, of a sort, for the cycling proposals appear to be consistent with the and pedestrian routes in this part of downtown. historic elements and design intent for the Capitol Mall and the State Park, and could The State Park Can Dovetail with greatly improve the visual and pedestrian Surrounding Plans connection between the building and the mall. Our Parkwide Plan recognizes and Salem is also rich in plans for improving other includes those proposals as good guidance sectors of the city center area, and for linking for the future. The City of Salem is them with the State Park and related state interested in installing curb extensions complex. and stamped concrete at key pedestrian crossings.  Salem’s Vision 2020, Ongoing This is a multi-partnership effort to  Willamette University Master Plan enliven the downtown and to improve The university is interested in the creation the experience for visitors and shoppers of some type of campus “gateway” to the city center through events, street improvement at Winter Street’s intersection furnishings and signs, gathering spaces with State Street. This happens to also be and making better connections. The the city bike route and a popular walking partnership has made great strides toward route for commuting workers to the state that goal in the last couple of years. campus. There is an opportunity to change One of the goals they have is to better that intersection to support cycling and connect the downtown with the river, walking, and to also be a gateway from the the neighborhoods and with nearby and south into the State Park. Some type of adjacent parks and open space. They are “mini-crossing plaza” with special paving looking for strong connections between the and a narrowed cross-section could be State Park and the city’s bike and walking explored with the university and city. This

20 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK is one of the street crossings for which outlined in the Area Plan. The following the city is interested in providing curb are paraphrased excerpts from the Capitol extensions. Mall Area Plan.

 City Bike Routes Planning The responsibility for the planning and The Winter Street bike route enters the reconstruction of the Capitol was assigned State Park at the intersection of Winter to the State Capitol Reconstruction and Court Streets, just to the opposite Commission in 1935 after the second side of the park from the proposed statehouse was destroyed by re. Later, Willamette University gateway. The to guide the growth of additional state Winter and Court Street intersection could buildings in the mall area, the Capitol have the same kind of surface and cross- Planning Commission was established section treatments as might be done at in 1949. The Commission was given the Winter and State Street intersections, authority to approve the design and complimenting each other, and conforming development of all state lands in Salem with the design intent of the Capitol’s north in 1973, and their role was more clearly plaza extension. de ned and their responsibilities were renewed, in 2009. The Chemeketa Street bike route runs across the State Park, as the street itself The Commission is charged with drops underground. As was pointed out establishing and implementing by the neighborhood representative, the development plans and standards for state current route through the park is hampered properties in Salem, and with approving by the placement of two new restroom all building proposals for compliance. The buildings that visually block the view goals, standards and criteria in the Area from the neighborhood to the downtown Plan pertain largely to proposals for the through the park. This also creates sight placement of new buildings, rather than to distance problems and near collisions small scale elements, such as landscaping, between cyclists and pedestrians who site furnishings, walkway layout and cannot see each other very well. Moving lighting. Here are some of the goals that the restrooms back, potentially with one on are relevant to the State Park: the other side of the park, would resolve both of these problems; or cyclists could 1. Preserve and enhance the Capitol Mall be safely routed around the buildings with as the symbolic and functional center changes to the pavement and plantings. of the legislative, judicial and executive branches of state government.  Capitol Mall Area Plan, 1992 2. Encourage planned development of the The state’s Department of Administrative Capitol Mall. Services (DAS) oversees the completion of plans for each of the major state building 3. Preserve and maintain areas of the campuses in Salem, under the guidance of natural environment that are unique to the Capitol Planning Commission. Their the Mall’s setting. Capitol Mall Area Plan pertains to the new 4. Preserve those features that are special State Park, and the OPRD plan for the and unique to the Capitol Mall while park needs to be consistent with the goals, being responsive to changing needs and building criteria and development policies conditions.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 21 5. Preserve and maintain the traditional This Formal Mall highlights the relationship and architectural character importance of good pedestrian and visual of historic buildings and grounds that connections between the State Park and de ne the Formal Capitol Mall. the Justice/Supreme Court buildings, and 6. Provide conservation and development a visual connection to the Commerce guidelines for the orderly and ef cient Building, to the east across Waverly and th use of the Capitol Mall area. 12 Streets; and to the Executive Building 7. Encourage compatible relations of to the west across Cottage Street. the Capitol Mall with the surrounding community while maintaining its iden- Previous development within the Capitol tity as a signi cant place. Mall has established organizational 8. Provide a balanced transportation patterns which are based on the historic system in the Capitol Mall area in co- plan for the Mall. The primary north/south operation with state, city and regional and east/west axes which intersect at the transportation planning agencies. center of the Capitol Building have been 9. Achieve an environment that is attrac- the basis for development of buildings, tive and responsive to the basic needs places and features within the Mall. of all the people who will use the Capi- New development has the responsibility tol Mall. to clarify and reinforce the primary 10. Provide a basis for coordination of state organizational structure while also being government with the City of Salem, responsive to the individual needs and neighborhood groups, Salem Area conditions of the State Park plan. Balance, Mass Transit District and other public cohesiveness and order were the intensions and private entities affected by Capitol of the original architect and these are the Mall development. continuing architectural and landscaping foundations the Capitol Mall area should All future development in the Formal Mall be based on. should recognize, respect, and reinforce the existing design elements of the Mall There must be a continuity of design and associated parks. The Formal Mall elements for landscaping, signage, paving includes the executive, legislative and and street accessories. Consistency judicial branches of government housed of color, materials and detail can unite in the Capitol, Executive, Supreme Court, dissimilar elements within the Mall and Justice, State Library, Public Services, with interconnecting streets. Transportation, Labor and Industries Buildings, the two-block-long Mall Plaza Recognized landmarks or features include: and Green, and the parks east and west Willson Park, Capitol Park, the mall plaza, of the Capitol Building. The Commerce Capitol Fountain, War Memorial Plaque, Building (originally the Agriculture Liberty Bell Replica, three statues in Building) is a signi cant feature of the Capitol Park, and the marble stelae and building group clustered around the Mall, steps and landings on the Capitol’s north, and its west entry is on a straight axial east and west sides. alignment with the original east door of the Capitol Building.

22 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK

24 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 04: Park Assessments

Various aspects of State Capitol State Park causing a lesser impact on park enjoyment. have been identi ed and analyzed to better It is a three lane street, however, and can understand the opportunities and constraints be intimidating to cross for pedestrians and for improvements to the park. This has cyclists. Winter, Capitol and Waverly Streets included: are relatively little travelled by vehicles. Since Chemeketa Street passes under the park, it Circulation has a fairly light impact on park use, as well. Views It is a two way, two lane street that is easily Historic spaces and features crossed at Winter and Capitol Streets. Summer Gathering spaces Street, a major arterial from the north, dead Infrastructure ends at the north boundary of the park at Vegetation Center Street. The intersection of Summer Honorary features or remembrances and Center is a dif cult and intimidating crossing for pedestrians and cyclists. East and Map diagrams that illustrate each of the West Summer Streets are reserved for service analyses are found at the end of this chapter. and emergency vehicles only, and end up serving as signi cant additional walkways for Circulation pedestrians and cyclists. The main north/south Street layout surrounding and passing through arterials are 12th and 13th Streets, to the east. the park offer drivers great views of the park especially from the major east-west streets. The Capitol Master Plan shows Court Street as Major arterials run east/west adjacent to the a narrowed street that merges into a pedestrian north and south boundaries of the park on plaza across the center of the street. All of the Center and State Streets. The major north/ parking and the drop off loop from the north south arterials are a few blocks away. This entrance would be removed. OPRD supports allows for easy vehicular access to the site and this plan. Bus drop off and parking could be enjoyment of it in passing, while keeping the considered along Waverly Street. noise, fumes and congestion on the fringes. Court Street currently runs west, while State The park is better seen by bike or on foot. and Center run only east. According to the Salem has three bike routes that intersect the City of Salem public works, Court Street is not park. The Winter Street route runs along the nearly as heavily travelled as State and Center, west side of the mall block and then across

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 25 Willson Park, veering around the central oval crossing experience and increase safety for to reach the intersection with State Street, all. The foremost is the crossings at West/ before continuing through the Willamette East Summer Streets and Court Street. Others University campus. The intersection of the include the Winter Street bike route and State bike route with State Street can be intimidating Street, Winter Street bike route and Court to cross. The Chemeketa Street route is the Street, and Summer and Center Streets. Each east/west route. One third of its traf c is of these intersections could be narrowed and reported to be bicycles, making it a major bike repaved with pavers or other surfacing that can route, indeed. This route is currently partially alert drivers to the potential for and right-of- blocked by the placement of the new restroom way of pedestrians and bikes. Other crossings buildings. Moving them back, or routing bikes could be improved by changing the surface around them, would solve this problem. The paving material within the cross walks and Summer Street route enters the park from the potentially including extensions of the curb at north along West Summer Street and intersects the crossings. with the Chemeketa Street route, and then with the Winter Street route. These routes meet Within the park pedestrians take many where there is plenty of space for turning and routes for various purposes. None of this interaction. use is congested, except during events. All approach the park at street crossings, from the There are four major bike/pedestrian crossing underground parking garage or from parking areas associated with the park that could on the north side of the Capitol. bene t from traf c calming to improve the

26 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Views pedestrian space between the Supreme Court There are basically three levels of important and Justice Buildings would support and views at the park. The rst is the major north/ enhance this view. Keeping the view open south view along the Park Mall, looking to and to the Commerce Building is important. In from the Capitol. This view is enhanced by Willson Park the view is mainly through a the openness of the mall, and uniform rows of large, sunny open space with anking walks. cherry trees. There is no terminus at Summer Historically this view was centered on the Street currently. In the future a new state courthouse, and later intervening post of ce building will be erected on the corner opposite which eventually was replaced by the state the Revenue Building and may have a bank of Executive Services Building. It is important to cherry trees to match those on the mall. Even keep this view open. with this new building, the view will continue up Summer Street. Street trees and broad, The third level of key views is along the two comfortable sidewalks on Summer Street, as major bike routes through the park. The view it passes through the north mall of the state along the Chemeketa Street route is currently campus, will enhance that view. obscured by the new restroom buildings. The second level of views is the two east/west Moving them back would open up the view. axes looking to and from the Capitol. These The Winter Street route through Willson Park are historic axes and views that originated is visually obscured by dense, broadleaf and with the rst and second Capitols. In Capitol deciduous shrubbery, making the route unclear Park the view is emphasized by the straight for rst-time-users and resulting in near east/west walkway through the center of the collisions with pedestrians and other cyclists park, and centering on the east door of the as they negotiate the multiple intersections Capitol. Looking east, the view from the around the central oval. Opening up the Capitol historically ran between the Supreme shrubbery, even partially, and moving the Court and Justice Buildings and centered plantings back somewhat from the walkways on the Commerce Building. Enhancing the will improve this situation tremendously.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 27 Historic Analysis Most of the current pathway layout should be The Park History gives us a good basis for retained, as per the Lloyd Bond design in the this analysis. The most important historic 1960’s, although the western end of this layout feature in the park is, of course, the Capitol does not work well for park users as it chops itself, with its north/south and east/west up the space and blocks the views with the views along central axes. The north-facing small scale rectangles of trees. This area could axis is predominant in size and effect, and be redone to match the sweeping pathways in because it relates to the front entrance of the the majority of the park. Capitol Park with its current Capitol building. The east/west axes leafy canopy and arboretum-style collection are secondary today, but were historically of many tree species has some trees from primary, especially on the west side of the an earlier era. The trees have grown up in a Capitols. These axes and their views through crowded condition in some areas and would open space, all three, need to be preserved into bene t from selective thinning to encourage the future. Willson Park, the original park an attractive form into the future, especially in Salem and original open space associated among the Douglas rs. The three statues with the original Capitol, should continue to should be protected for the future. There is no be managed primarily as an open space park known reason to move them from their current with an arboretum-style collection of trees and positions. In the Park Mall, the sunken terrace, shrubs. Within Willson Park, the Breyman the north Capitol stairway and its marble Fountain is the only remaining artifact from sculptures, and the east and west stairways the second Capitol and should be protected and should also be protected. The Garden Pride restored. Some trees that are overly crowded, building should be retained, and continue to degraded or malformed, or which shade out be used for park administration and operation, undergrowth could be selectively removed. with elements of its character preserved.

28 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Gathering Spaces or without the temporary closure of Court There are a series of important gathering Street, for events of all kinds including spaces in the park that should be recognized tents and other support equipment for large and preserved that could impair their use and events. The space is extremely popular enjoyment. in warm weather when the Wall of Water is operating. The area could bene t from The most intensive gathering space is turning the adjacent portion of Court Street the north entrance stairway and drop off into a plaza that is visually continuous with area for the Capitol. It is the scene of terrace paving and can be closed to traf c legislative, educational and tour events for events. It could also use more support throughout the year, climaxing during amenities such as tables and benches, the legislative session. This space could perhaps to be located within the adjacent bene t from improved universal access garden alcoves. A few vendors could be and pedestrian crossing of Court Street. accommodated along the corners of this Parking at the drop off area mars the space. potential beauty and function of this space for gathering. Parking should be moved The grassy mall with Capitol Fountain on out and replaced with plaza paving. At the north and the six anking shady garden times, this space is extended into Court alcoves can also be used for events and Street by temporary closure of Court Street event over ow, but are more often used to motorized vehicles for events. by park visitors during walks, lunches and tours. It is important to preserve the mall The companion space to the Capitol and the alcoves for these uses and for the stair plaza, just across Court Street to view of the Capitol. Some of the alcoves the north, is the sunken terrace with the could have tables with seating installed for Wall of Water. This space is used, with public use.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 29 Willson Park has two main gathering under the trees. Occasionally, groups spaces. The rst is the Walk of Flags oval use these areas for barbeques and of ce that is used by school groups from the gatherings. Ground cover plantings and nearby nursery schools. This space needs some selective tree removal could enhance to be kept open for views and free play. the use of these spaces. The area around The other gathering space is the west end the Garden Pride maintenance building of the park between Waite Fountain, the should be planted to screen some parts of gazebo and the historic fountain. This the building, like the shop yard area, from space could bene t from some better view and highlight others, such as a public spatial de nition and routing of walkways. entrance, on the west side. Greenworks landscape architectural rm completed a plan for this area for just The nal gathering spaces are the two this purpose in 2007. Our Parkwide Plan secondary stairways and landings at the should recognize and incorporate the east and west ends of the Capitol, the Greenworks recommendations. This area small entrance plazas of each of the four also presents the opportunity for creating state buildings on the mall, and the ODOT a “children’s sculpture garden” populated entrance court on Capitol Street. These by interactive art for children to play on spaces should continue to be de ned such as the Parade of Animals and The mostly by open pavement backed by Beaver Family, once these are relocated. surrounding low to moderate height (Parade of Animals is currently located shrubbery. Benches should be placed here just to the west of the Waite Fountain and for workers without interfering with the The Beaver Family is located just to the main access to each of the buildings. north of the center of the oval.) The open space to the south is used by teenagers Infrastructure Constraints and young adults, centering on the gazebo, Two areas of major infrastructure constraint who are sometimes seen as disruptive and need to be mentioned. The rst is the unique intimidating. Improving the adjacent open structural and utility-related constraints of the space should support positive park uses underground parking garage below the Mall. in this area, and attract more families and Any major changes to the trees, pavement or walkers. structures will need to be compatible with the limitations of this infrastructure. It must be Capitol Park has three gathering noted that the trees over the parking garage areas within the trees. The foremost have limited soil depth and are restricted to centers on “The Circuit Rider” statue, shallow root systems, making them more its accompanying statues of Lee and susceptible to wind-throw, disease, soil surface McLouglin and remnants of the columns impacts and other stresses. The second is from the second Capitol. The space is the area proposed for the Capitol to improve intimate, but somewhat disjointed. It its seismic stability and HVAC system, by needs to be opened up somewhat through opening up the north entrance stairway and careful pruning or removal of shrubbery, completely rebuilding it. Care should be taken better de ned by the placement of ground in replacing the stairway so it functions and covers and united by pathways to link looks much as it does now, with improved the elements better. Two other gathering universal access and protection of the spaces, to the north and south, are used by magnolia trees and marble stelae. individuals and small groups lunching and relaxing on the many scattered benches

30 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Vegetation an emphasis on the single species of owering State Capitol State Park is not a typical state cherry cultivar (Prunus yedoensis ‘Akebono’) park in that all of the trees, shrubs, owers, with their understory of various owering ground cover and grass have been planted at shrubs and broadleaf evergreens. The open some time, rather than occurring naturally as lawn in the mall should continue outside of part of a native habitat. This makes the park the treed areas and ower beds, except for a unique, but by no means less interesting or few garden alcoves that might be graveled or beautiful. Staff have completed an inventory paved. of the tree locations and species in the park, to be used as a basis for determining which trees Willson Park’s character is more curvilinear need to be pruned or removed, which older with rounded, open spaces of grass down the trees need special attention and where some center, anked by large specimen shade and new trees might be planted. The attached map coniferous trees with little understory, allowing shows trees to be retained in dark lines, and visitors to wander about. Many secondary trees proposed to be removed in light lines and owering trees are found among the larger the locations of a few new trees. trees offering seasonal interest and helping to The park has 76 different species of trees, screen the park from the adjacent busy street. showing the modern day park to be as much or Some areas of shrubbery have become thick more of an arboretum than the original parks and heavy, in contrast to the openness of the were. This tradition and planting approach rest of the site, and should be thinned out and should continue. However, each of the three opened up. park areas has a very different character in the trees they contain and how they are arranged. Capitol Park’s character is shadier, with more The Park Mall is planted in straight-lines, shrubbery and small trees creating smaller, using bilaterally symmetrical geometry with more intimate areas among the trees. Some

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 31 of these areas are so shady that little grows. Honorary Features or Remembrances Some trees are crowded together. These areas There are several major honorary features, could bene t from pruning, limbing up and or remembrances, in the park that are there selected tree removal that keeps the diversity in memory of certain individuals or events. of species intact and brings a bit more sunshine These should be protected in their current into the spaces. Shade-loving ground covers locations due to their size and popularity, and could be planted as well. Some of the oldest for some, because of their historic importance. trees remain in this park and could bene t These include the Capitol, Waite and Breyman from as much care as is feasible to keep them Fountains and the Wall of Water; The Circuit around as testament to the past. Rider, Lee and McLoughlin statues; the Finally, many trees are located on the grounds carved, free-standing marble walls; The Fallen of the four state of ce buildings on the Workers Memorial, Walk of Flags, Tribal mall block. Most are attractive and some Walk of Flags and selected commemorative not so attractive. Selective removal and trees. Other smaller sculptures and features replacement of those that don’t enhance the should be retained, but could be relocated area is recommended. Foundation plantings including The Beaver Family, the Parade of around the Capitol and these buildings should Animals interactive children’s sculpture and continue to be based on the classic, formal the Liberty Bell. approach in form and species selection.

The question of whether to bring in more native species prompted some interesting discussions. Oregon grape, the “state ower” is planted in all three parks, but does not thrive in the Mall, probably due to competition with cherry roots. In this area Oregon grape may need to be replaced with another species that can do better there. Oregon grape can be used effectively in Capitol Park where more dense vegetation is the intent of the design. Many other natives may be problematic to cultivate or do not have the re ned appearance that is characteristic of Willson Park and the Mall. Making a major change to native species would not be in keeping with the exotic (non- native) arboretum design intent of all three “parks”, although invasive exotics should not be used.

32 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Center St NE Center St NE State Capitol State Park Quru Tico Vegetation Plan Prye Prye Ha sp. Ha sp. Cofl Acpl

Pyca

Prye Prye Prye

Prye l Prye Prye Labor and Magr Magr ODOT Acpa Gibi Magr Magr Capito

Industries Fountain Prye Prye Acru Pyca Pyca Stja

Pinus Pyca Pyca Quru Prye Acpl Prye Acpl Prye Acpl

Prye Qupa Prye Acpl Prye Prye Prye Prye KEY Prye Acpl Winter St NE Acpl The Other Site Features (Statues, Fountains) Prye Acpl Quru Prye Pinus Park Mall Prye Buildings Pyca Acpl Stko Capitol St NE Pyca List Existing Evergreen Trees

Prye Prye Prye Existing Deciduous Trees Prye State Magr Prye Prye Magr Public Magr Magr Library Prye Services Trees to be Added

Pyca Prye Cofl Pyca Trees to be Removed List Coko Gibi Quru Tsca Cuse Cuse Acru Acru Prye Wall of Water Litu Prye Prye Prye Prye 0 50 100 150 North

Acps Acps Ti x eu Ti x eu Court St NE Ulam Acca Acca Malu sp. List Litu Acpa Acpl

Acca Psme Malu Litu Coko Plac Acpa Acpa Maso Ulca Psme Gibi Aehi Mako Acgi Psme Thpl Maso Acpa Pinus Psme Acpl Maso Acpl Psme Chpi UNK Segi Quro Acru Stja Dio Pypy Cr x la Gibi Acpa Segi Pimo Pipu Toca Cabe Pien Aehi Cofl Abgr Acpl Thdo Juni List Ulca Maso Magr Magr Prse Litu Psme Chob Prye Pisi Cede Cabe Piab Chpi Soja Malu sp. Pinus Mali Megl Fasy Acpa Chpi Acpl Chpi Segi Cede Pape Prsu Ulca Psme Maso Juni Acpa Ulca Acpa Chpi Quco Waite Willson Park Capitol Tipl Fountain Megl Walk of Flags Park Cade Cofl Crja UNK Ulca Quma Fasy Ulca Capitol Pinus Alru Malu sp. Cede Nysy Sese Sese Psme Psme Acpa Psme

Soau Pinus Acpl St NE Waverly Ulca Building Cottage St NE Cabe Pham Acpl Maso Pior Acpl Made Fasy Segi Pimo Sese Aehi Acpl Crja Juni Chla Prsu Pinus Acpa Acca Ceat Ulca Mast Pyca Cofl Fasy Cofl Ulca List Cofl Prun sp

Pyca Pyca Pl x ac Tico List Pl x ac Acsa Tico List Acpl Pl x ac Pyca Pyca Acpl Ulam Litu Acpl State St NE 34 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK State Capitol State Park Tree List

Abgr Abies grandis Grand Fir Pape Parrotia persica Persian Ironwood Acca Acer campestre Hedge Maple Pham Phellodendron amurense Amur Cork Tree Acgi Acer ginnala Amur Maple Piab Picea abies Bird's Nest Spruce Acpa Acer palmatum Japanese Maple Pien Picea englemannii Engelmann Spruce Acpl Acer platanoides Norway Maple Pimo Pinus monticola Western White Pine Acps Acer pseudoplatanus Sycamore Maple Pinus Pinus species Pine Acru Acer rubrum Red Maple Pior Picea orientalis 'Barnes' Barnes Oriental Spruce Acsa Acer saccharinum Silver Maple Pipu Picea pungens 'glauca' Colorado Blue Spruce Aehi Aesculus hippocastanum Horse Chestnut Pisi Picea sitchensis Sitka Spruce Alru Alnus rubra Red Alder Pl x ac Platanus x acerifolia London Planetree Cabe Carpinus betulus European Hornbeam Prse Prunus serrula Birch Bark Cherry Cade Calocedrus decurrens Incense Cedar Prsu Prunus subhirtella 'pendula' Weeping Higan Cherry Ceat Cedrus atlantica 'Glauca' Blue Atlas Cedar Prun sp. Prunus Species Flowering Cherry Cede Cedrus deodara Deodar Cedar Prye Prunus yedoensis ' Akebono' Yoshino Cherry Chla Chamaecyparis lawsoniana Port Orford Cedar Psme Psuedotsuga menziesii Douglas Fir Chob Chamaecyparis obtusa Hinoki False Cypress Pyca Pyrus calleryana Autumn Blaze Autumn Blaze Pear Chpi Chamaecyparis pisifera Sawara Falsecypress Pypy Pyrus pyrifolia Chinese Pear Cofl Cornus florida Pink Dogwood Quco Quercus coccinea Scarlet Oak Coko Cornus kousa 'Julian' Julian Chinese Dogwood Quma Quercus macrocarpa Burr Oak Cr x la Cretaegus x lavallei 'Carrierei' Lavalle Hawthorn 'Carrierei' Qupa Quercus plaustris Pin Oak Crja Cryptomeria japonica Japanese cryptomeria Quro Quercus robur English Oak Cuse Cupressus sempervirens Italian Cypress Quru Quercus rubra Northern Red Oak Dio Diospyros Persimmon Segi Sequoiadendron giganteum Giant Sequoia Fasy Fagus sylvatica European Beech Sese Sequoia sempervirens Coast Redwood Gibi Ginkgo biloba Ginkgo Soau Sorbus aucuparia European Mountain Ash Ha sp. Hamamelis species Witch Hazel Soja Sophora japonica Japanese Sophora Juni Juglans nigra Black Walnut Stja Styrax japonicus Japanese Snowbell List Liquidambar styraciflua Sweet Gum Stko Stewartia koreana Korean Stewartia Litu Liriodendron tulipifera Tulip Tree Thdo Thujopsis dolabrata Elkhorn Cedar Made Magnolia denudata Yulan Magnolia Thpl Thuja plicata Western Red Cedar Magr Magnolia grandiflora Southern Magnolia Ti x Eu Tilia x euchlora Crimean Linden Mako Magnolia kobus Kobushi Magnolia Tico Tilia cordata Little Leaf Linden Mali Magnolia liliiflora Lily Magnolia Tipl Tilia platyphyllos Large-leaved Linden Malu sp. Malus species Crab apple Toca Torreya californica California nutmeg Maso Magnolia soulangiana Saucer Magnolia Tsca Tsuga canadensis Canadian Hemlock Mast Magnolia stellata Star Magnolia Ulam Ulmus americana American Elm Megl Metasequoia glyptostroboides Dawn Redwood Ulca Ulmus camperdownii Camperdown Elm Nysy Nyssa sylvatica Black Tupelo UNK Unknown 36 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK EXISTING HONORARY FEATURES Honorary Features Trees & Benches 38 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 05: Park Visitors

An understanding of who currently uses 1. Salem residents, especially those from the park was described by stakeholders and nearby neighborhoods: by staff who see how the park is used on a These visitors view the park as a weekly basis and throughout the year. Their neighborhood park where they can relax, observations helped planner to group visitors enjoy the outdoor setting and the water by how they use the park. Each user group has features. Many play in the Wall of Water its own set of desired experiences and related during the summer, especially families support facilities, spaces and places which the with kids. Many of these families may plan aims to understand and provide. come from other parts of the city to use one of the few water features in town that All visitors to the park are welcome as long as allow access. they adhere to park regulations and behave in a way that is harmonious with other users. A They are looking for continued access to very few user groups have certain behaviors the green spaces for sun and for shade that can deter some visitors from using the when needed, and for enjoying the water park. This chapter identi es the recognized features. They appear to lack seating in groups using the park and recommends how to shady areas, especially for parents who support their use, and also recommends how to are watching their children while they are modify the use of those few who may disrupt using the Wall of Water. It is important use of the park by others. Observations and to keep the fountains running during the discussions did not show the need to provide summer months for these users. They for any new user groups or other experiences may bene t from having outdoor tables than those described here. available to them for picnics and casual games. Each identi ed user group is listed below with a brief narrative of their desired experiences and park needs.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 39 2. Willamette University students and tours and brochures with attractions in staff: the city center to guide their visits. The The campus offers its own outdoor setting Capitol Foundation offers tours of the for relaxing, outdoor games and study, building. This user group is generally although students and staff could easily interested in the history of the place and use the State Park, as well, as it is just may want to know more about the grounds across the street. Primarily, this user around the Capitol and the many trees, group walks across the park to reach the statues and other features found there. northern part of downtown, by crossing at Interpretive and way- nding panels could the Cottage and State Streets intersection be important to this group, as well as and walking along the west end of benches and tables for resting and eating. Willson Park. This group is requesting that the vegetation be opened up and the Coordinating tours of the city center and walkways better de ned. The west end the inside of the Capitol Building with a of the park has a piecemeal arrangement self-guided walking tours of the Capitol of rectangular planting beds, some with grounds would support this group well, aging or unsightly trees and shrubs, with an including opportunities for interpretation as unattractive plain sidewalk along Cottage viewed from outdoor viewing area on the Street. top of the Capitol.

3. Nursery school groups: 5. Cyclists and pedestrians who are passing Nursery schools in the city neighborhood through the park: near the park include the YMCA and some The city bike routes bring cycling of the nearby churches. Nursery school commuters and people out for an easy workers often take their young charges on bike ride to and through the park. The outings in their large wagons, and to play many sidewalks surrounding the park in the grassy areas, mostly in Willson Park bring walking commuters and people or the Capitol Mall. Children’s groups are out for a local walk or jog. Street currently drawn to the Parade of Animals intersection improvements could calm and The Beaver Family gures in Willson traf c and narrow the distance across the Park. These could become the basis of a intersections. Orientation signs at all of the “children’s sculpture garden” north of the “entrances” to the park would help people oval in Willson Park, near their current who are unfamiliar to this part of the city. location. This area would be populated by Designating the bike routes through the interactive art for children to play on and park could help reduce con icts with around. Seating in this area could also be pedestrians. The restroom placement on helpful for caretakers and the children, Chemeketa Street interferes with the ow providing a place to rest or snack. of bike travel through the park and could 4. Travelers coming to see the Capitol and/ be remedied by moving them back and out or the city: of the travel way. Some visitors come to see the Capitol 6. People attending special events: building, or to visit the other attractions in Most for the organized events use the south this part of Salem, including Mission Mill half of the Capitol Mall plaza and adjacent and Riverfront Park. The city and some walkways and grassy areas, and some use organizations offer self-guided walking

40 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Court Street itself by getting a permit to who bring video and stories out from the temporarily close the street. These groups Capitol. As long as the wide paved service often bring in portable toilets, large tents, streets are available to them, the existing bleachers, booths and even support trailers, layout of Summer and Winter Streets stages and audio equipment. This user should work for them. group needs this area of the park and street to continue to be available for events, 9. Political groups: and could bene t from permanent seating This can include legislators and the and outdoor tables along the edges in the Governor’s of ce when they want to make shady alcoves. Electrical connections, speeches on the steps of the Capitol, and hardened surfaces, and water availability other political groups who may gather are important to them. there to intercept citizens to share their views with and to make speeches to 7. Nearby offi ce workers: create media events. Their primary need Most of these visitors work for the state, is access to the Capitol steps with the but some come from surrounding work Capitol building and the marble walls as a places. They use the park for walks and backdrop. Continuing their access to this resting during their breaks and sometimes area will be important to them. Improved eat their lunch. This group enjoys the universal access to this area would better various walkways, plantings, water support this use, as well as general access features, and paths throughout the park. to the Capitol. This group could bene t from outdoor tables in some areas, and may like to have 10. People conducting state business or some food and beverages available for business with a state agency: purchase in the park, especially during the State workers, members of the legislature summer months. and Governor’s of ce and their staff, and citizens and others who are working with 8. Media organizations: state agencies on the mall make up this This group uses the site much like those user group. They use the park by moving who are staging events, although there from parking to the particular building are often several media outlets there where their business is happening, whether at the same time, without any central it is a meeting or going for a permit or coordination. They may come to the site information. People who are new to the without prior planning or permits, based site often nd it hard to nd parking and on news events that may be breaking at the building they are seeking. Once in the Capitol building. They need spaces to the park, the pathways connect well from park their transmission trucks primarily any one building to another, and the many to extend their tall antennae. Most of this street crossings support this as well. The activity does not happen in the summer, new visitors need well placed orientation and so does not con ict with other events signs that show the layout of the streets, that are mostly occurring in the summer. walkways and buildings, name the The park continues to provide space near buildings and show where parking options the front of the Capitol to be able to lm are located. events there and to be nearby for reporters

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 41 11. Teen-agers and young adults: This group is mostly made up of local young people who are old enough to be out on their own and are looking for a convenient and comfortable place to hang out. They tend to use the west end of Willson Park and the gazebo and benches found near the Waite Fountain. This group is generally well-behaved, but can at times take over portions of the sidewalks, and may seem intimidating to some park visitors. Providing adequate benches off of the sidewalks in this area and keeping the vegetation open and major walkways clear could improve the use of the park for this group and others.

Vendors: There are very few food vendors in the park. This group might be encouraged to use the park more in small numbers.. Especially in the summer, this group, if carefully selected, located and managed, might enhance other park visitors’ experience.

42 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 06: Goals for Park Management

Based on the analysis you have read so 3. Retain and enhance a “park-like” far, and on OPRD’s intent for the park, setting that is relaxing and beautiful. the following parkwide goals have been This will be done by maintaining and identi ed to guide the remainder of the enhancing the large, grassy open space plan. areas, trees and planting beds, fountains, plazas and walkway, and by providing 1. Manage the park to recognize, respect attractive and comfortable seating and and reinforce the existing design tables, lighting and other site furnishing. elements of the three park areas, except for the far west end where changes are 4. Support the needs of the diversity of appropriate. visitors and their desired experiences. The three park areas each have their own People use this park in a number of unique character, based on the history different ways, each with their own needs of how and when they were constructed. and interests. The urban location makes The goal is to protect and continue the for a mix of user groups that range from general layout, spaces, plazas, pathways business-related to tourist and local and planting areas that the park is known neighborhood visitors. The goal is to for, while making small changes that are recognize the key park user groups and the needed to support the other goals, where way they use the park, and look at whether appropriate. we can possibly improve their experience, while ensuring that con icts among user 2. Manage the park to support all four groups are minimized. park roles. Park layout, circulation and access will 5. Link the state park with other continue to support the park in it’s role neighboring and nearby places through as the seat of state government, an urban bike routes, walkways and pedestrian- park, a place for a diversity of visitors and friendly street crossings a place for special events and staging areas. The goal is to improve the physical connections between State Capitol State Park and the surrounding Salem community. This includes providing, in cooperation with the city of Salem,

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 43 site improvements such as better street meaning for visitors about the park’s crossings, and recognizing and keeping history and features by interpreting open bike routes through the park. It important themes for the park and selecting also includes linking the park to the city the best places and design for capturing through interpretive materials such as site the visitors’ attention and interest. It is context maps and information on a heritage also important to offer well-placed, well- bike tour of Salem that includes SCSP. designed guidance for visitors entering and leaving the park to other areas in the city 6. Recognize and include elements from center and to the various state government overlapping and adjacent plans that fi t buildings. All signs and panels will be with the goals for this park. placed and designed to t well with the This state park is owned by other state park setting. agencies and is accessed by adjacent city streets, sidewalks and bicycle routes and 9. Provide clear and consistent strategies street crossings. Several other agencies for working with our management and foundations, and the neighboring City partners. of Salem and Willamette University have As this park is managed in cooperation plans for their areas, streets and bike routes with a number of partner agencies and adjacent to or overlapping the park. One groups, having clear agreements and goal of this plan is to recognize portions policies for our major management of those overlapping and adjacent plans responsibilities with those partners will that t with the goals for the new state be a priority for park management. This park, and to combine them with any new includes agreements with the other recommendations into one parkwide plan. landowners such as DAS and ODOT, and any others that need to be addressed. The 7. Manage the park to be safe, yet goal is to identify where those agreements welcoming, enjoyable and visually open. are needed, and complete and implement To have a good experience in the park, them. visitors need to feel safe and also welcome. Keeping the park well-maintained and 10. Undertake management practices supervised, and keeping the vegetation that are sustainable, feasible and cost somewhat open with clear views through effective, with the highest standards for the park, along pathways and around cleanliness, condition and appearance. buildings will contribute to a setting that Day-to-day and long term management is safe and welcoming. The goal is to and maintenance of the park, its features, supervise the park and maintain vegetation infrastructure and visitors needs to be to manage visitors and vehicles to achieve based on the standards of sustainable a feeling of well being for visitors as they resource use and site conservation for walk through or visit the park. future visitors, feasibility to implement and continue, cost effectiveness in time and 8. Enhance visitor understanding of the resources, and a high-quality outcome. park through interpretation and way- fi nding. The plan also needs to provide for needed Currently, the park has no interpretive operational facilities that are large enough, media or panels and little or no orientation and are located and designed to be signage. The goal is to provide more convenient for staff and the public.

44 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 07: Interpretation and Way Finding

Introduction The Interpretive Chapter includes a special This Interpretive and Way Finding Chapter consideration of how to actively improve is a blueprint for the information network visitors’ understanding of, and connection to, for the park—interpretation, orientation the park through interpretation, and through and way nding information—necessary to improved orientation, also known as “way- support the desired visitor experiences at State nding”. Interpretive themes and stories about Capitol State Park. The chapter consists of the the importance of the site over time have also following key parts: been identi ed. The recommended interpretive themes are outlined in this chapter. These 1. Themes: These are the key interpretive are the key messages to be communicated. messages to be communicated. The Interpretive stories, and panel and pamphlet interpretive stories are selected and wording will be selected and developed to developed to communicate the themes. communicate the themes. Media, such as signs, exhibits, publications, etc., and other 2. Delivery strategies: These are the strategies for delivering the themes and stories media—signs, exhibits, publications, etc.— to the visitor have been identi ed, along with and other strategies for communicating the a recommended schedule for implementation. interpretive stories and the orientation and Site media will be placed and designed to t way nding information. harmoniously into the park setting, and historic layout and features. 3. Implementation Strategy: This is the recommended approach for providing the Based on the OPRD Regional Interpretive components of the information network. Framework interpretive “levels of service” de nitions, Level Three is proposed for this Interpretive Theme Hierarchy park. The interpretive opportunities in Level OPRD builds its interpretive stories on four Three parks are typically self-guided. The levels of theme and story development. interpretive strategies may include outdoor interpretive structures such as kiosks or 1. Primary Theme signage, and may include seasonal or event- This is the key concept re ecting the based programs and guided tours. signi cance of the park.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 45 2. Themes Willamette University and the town of These are the ideas or concepts that Salem. together support the Primary Theme.  Groups with interest in having the Capitol Ideally, all visitors will understand at least located in Salem were powerful enough one of the themes based on their speci c to have the Territorial Government moved area of interest (cultural history, natural from Oregon City. history, etc.). Sub-Theme 1-2: The Capitol Building and 3. Sub-themes Mall seen today are the result of major changes These are the ideas or concepts that support from past landscape designs and re ect a a theme. desire for a modern public space.

4. Supporting Stories Examples of supporting stories: These are the stories that communicate a • The changes in the physical size of the sub-theme or theme. State Capitol building. • The addition and size of speci c Primary Theme buildings along the mall to allow the State The buildings, features and layout of government to do its business. Oregon’s State Capitol State Park refl ect • The array of changes made after the the ongoing evolution of Oregon’s Capitol burning of the State Capitol in the 1930s, in response to the changing needs, values including the change in orientation of the and infl uences of Oregonians. State Capitol Building and development of the Capitol Mall to create a plaza, in part, Discussion: The primary theme ties together for public gatherings. the two major forces that have in uenced the changes in our State Capitol – the people Sub-theme 1-3: The design of the primary of the state overall, which resulted in basic building and grounds re ect the time during changes to the structure and extent of the place which it was designed and built. where the government convenes, and speci c in uential people or events, which resulted in Examples of supporting stories: more cosmetic changes to the visual scene. It • The initial Territorial Statehouse was built also includes the basic concept that the State in a conventional style for statehouses of Capitol is continuing to evolve in response to the day—Greek Revival, with each house those same forces. of government on a different oor. • The second building for housing the seat Themes of Oregon’s government was also built in a style conventional for a statehouse of Theme 1: Every iteration of the State Capitol the day. It was Italian Renaissance with and grounds – as a whole – re ects the social, the two houses of government on opposite political and historical context of the era in ends. which it was developed. • The re-design of the Capitol and grounds in 1935 broke from the past but was still Sub-theme 1-1: The State Capitol is in Salem in uenced heavily by the historical context in this location due to the political powers at of the time. The ceremonial approach to the time Oregon became a state. the new Capitol entrance within a formal Examples of supporting stories grouping of anking buildings was based  The land for the Capitol was donated by a on an approach introduced at the Columbia group of lay Methodists who also started Exposition in Chicago in 1893, and was

46 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK known as the Beaux Arts Style or City • The State Capitol is the foremost Beautiful Movement. The National Capitol community planning and architectural and Mall are also based on this style of development project carried out in Oregon building and street placement. by the Public Works Administration, a federal work program overseen jointly by Theme 2: The Capitol grounds retain elements the state and federal governments. re ecting different speci c in uences that • Flags of the nine sovereign nations in affected Oregon and the Capitol over time. Oregon are erected in the park. This may be the only state Capitol with such a formal Supporting stories use different features and recognition of the tribal entities in the state. characteristics to focus on speci c in uences Tell how this came about and why it is of the past. Features could include the important. following: • The Capitol is now a state park. This • An explanation of why the park is located changes its nature from merely a gathering in Salem and at this site due to the place with a few historical accessories into in uence of Methodists. a more full-bodied experience created by • Why the rst two Capitols were oriented people to tell a story. to the west due to the importance of the river as a major travel corridor and the relationship to the city of Salem. Visitor Experience of • The circuit rider, Jason Lee and Dr. John Interpretation and Way-Finding McLaughlin statues re ect how they were The following narrative describes what a regarded in Oregon history by people in visitor experience could be after implementing power at the time they were commissioned. the interpretive recommendations. The map • Dominating statue of “The Pioneer” shows the location of xed components re ects popular beliefs at the time it was identi ed in this narrative. All interpretive designed. opportunities are included in the narrative • The subjects on the friezes on the front and summarized at the end of this section. façade and the carved wooden panels Complete design concepts are included in the on the interior of the Capitol re ect the nal section. dominant beliefs at the time the current building was designed. Potential Interpretive Visitor • The various landscaping schemes re ecting Experience an evolving view of the best landscape for For those planning a trip to the park, the State a state Capitol. Capitol State Park (SCSP)Website provides • What caused the development of the a description of the array of interpretive Capitol Mall and change in building and recreational opportunities along with orientation. suggested itineraries. It also provides up-to- • The ceremonial approach consisting of a date information on events and happenings formal building group with an open vista as well as basic orientation and way nding re ects the City Beautiful Movement information to guide them to parking and launched by the Columbian Exposition in onto the grounds. Visitors can download the Chicago in 1893. Self-guided Walking Tour Map Brochure, • The artwork re ects a desire by the the Application for the GPS-based Walking Planning Group for a “distinctively Oregon Tour, or the Guide to Plants and Wildlife in capitol.” This includes the subject of the the Park and set out for the park. friezes and the carved wood murals and The Pioneer atop the dome.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 47 After arriving in the park, whether by way of Bicyclists are motivate d to take advantage of the underground parking structure, by foot the Historic Salem Bike Tour that includes or on bicycle, all visitors encounter a SCSP not only the State Capitol, but also historic Site Orientation Panel at the perimeter downtown Salem, Willamette Heritage Center, of the park. Primary entryways have a Willamette University and other historic more substantial version of the panel while features in the nearby area. Those interested secondary entryways have a smaller version. in plants pick up the Guide to Plants and The panel orients visitors to all the features of Wildlife in the Park to nd out more about the park, the buildings associated with the site, the different species planted on the site and key amenities and interpretive opportunities. the reasons for the different approaches to The primary panel also shows the location of landscaping the grounds. other features and locations within the city center to provide the context for the park. All visitors are motivated to return for Special Regardless of the section of the park visitors Events, during which they will be able to take enter – Willson Park, Capitol Park or the a Guided Tour of the exterior. Mall – they are also attracted to a cluster of interpretive panels that t in harmoniously Summary of Interpretive and with the park setting. Way Finding Opportunities The Willson Park Interpretive Panel Cluster, located at the west end of that park SCSP Website area, focuses on the different in uences that The website provides orientation, way nding helped shape what we see today. It uses images and interpretive information designed to of previous buildings to help tell this story. motivate viewers to visit the park and guide them to parking and/or entryways. It also The Capitol Park Interpretive Panel provides links to additional information for Cluster, located near the center of that park those who might want it before or after a trip area, uses the statues and other features that to the park. Finally, it offers the opportunity can be seen from the cluster location to focus to download the appropriate application for on the re ection of Oregon’s history in the the GPS-based Self-Guided Walking/Biking visual scene. Tour, the Guide to Plants and Wildlife in the Park, and the basic Self-Guided Walking/ Finally, the Capitol Mall Interpretive Panel Biking Tour Map/Brochure along with other Cluster, located at the north end of the Mall, information about the park. uses the Capitol Building and surrounding features to focus on the reasons for the design SCSP Orientation Panel of the current Capitol and grounds, and why it This panel, with the OPRD logo and a was a signi cant departure from the past. “Welcome” to the State Capitol State Park at the top, features a map drawn from an The interpretive panel clusters and the self- oblique aerial perspective to give the buildings guided walking tour motivate visitors to a 3-dimensional appearance. It contains explore the entire park. The Self Guided all features, buildings and interpretive Walking Tour, available using GPS technology opportunities in the park area and an indication or using a brochure, guides them around the of the surrounding area. The location of these grounds and into the Capitol Building where panels is depicted on the Site Plan. they can take advantage of the interpretive and educational opportunities in that space.

48 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Self Guided Walking Tour The tour uses key features, landscapes and • Panel 3 focuses on how the government viewscapes to communicate and reinforce the has changed since the building was themes and sub-themes identi ed for the park. completed as manifested in changes to Ideally this walking tour would include sites the Capitol Building and the addition of within the Capitol Building, accessible without buildings, the parking structure and other a personal guide. Delivery strategies include features. a brochure with map and a GPS-based audio version. Willson Park Interpretive panel cluster These panels, located at the west end of Capitol Mall Interpretive Panel Cluster Willson Park (see Site Plan), include the These panels, located at the north end of the following: mall (see Site Plan), include the following: • Panel 1 focuses on the change from the • Panel 1 focuses on the story of why the past in terms of orientation, design and State Capitol is in this speci c location. layout of the Capitol and the surrounding The story of the role of the Methodists is grounds and the reasons for those changes. included on this panel. • Panel 2 focuses on the design and layout of the park as a re ection of the context of the times in which it was created.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 49 • Panel 2 focuses on the rst Territorial Exterior Guided Tours Statehouse, the design as a re ection of These will be offered during special events and the context of the times, the burning of seasonally as feasible given park staf ng. the building and the reasons why another building was not built immediately. Historic Salem Bicycle Tour • Panel 3 focuses on the second building This tour, using a GPS system tied to an housing the state government, the design application on smart phones or other devices, as a re ection of the context of the times, will include the Self-Guided Walking Tour the burning of the building, and the of the park plus Willamette University, the opportunity that created to create a new Willamette Heritage Center and downtown center of state government. This should Salem at a minimum. A map will be include a teaser to send people to the necessary to accompany the audio delivery Capitol Mall cluster. of information. This would be a collaborative venture with other entities. Capitol Park Interpretive Panel Cluster These panels, located in Capitol Park near the Implementation Plan statues (see Site Plan), include the following: A key issue with implementing this plan is for all basic strategies to be designed to pique • Panel 1 uses historic images of how interest in the other strategies. This allows the Capitol Park has changed over time to interpretive elements to function as a network, focus on the concept that different forces connected throughout the park. This is ideally had impact at different times in history on accomplished when all basic strategies are the visual scene we see today. The panel implemented at the same time. Consequently, should act as a teaser to send people to we recommend the following phased approach. the panel cluster in Willson Park where they can get more information on how the Phase 1: Basic Network Capitol building changed over time. This phase includes the following actions: • Panel 2 uses the statues and features visible from this point to focus on forces 1. Implement the following strategies, which important in our history that are not represent the basic way nding, orientation highlighted by monuments and the fact that and interpretive network for the park. what people see represents what those in • SCSP Orientation Panels - these could power at a particular point in time thought be fabricated in batches, but cost was important. savings can be realized by making • Panel 3 uses the statue of The Pioneer to them all at the same time. focus on the role of the common person in the evolution of the state. 2. Establish a task force of partners and begin planning the Historic Salem Bicycle Tour. Guide to Plants and Wildlife in the Park This publication, organized by section of the 3. Work with the Oregon State Capitol park for easy reference, includes identi cation Foundation to develop an interior exhibit information along with interpretive tidbits orienting visitors to both the park and the focused on historic approaches to landscaping interior of the Capitol Building. Suggest a and reasons for the selection of certain species, panel or two on the Capitol roof. and outstanding owering times. It also 4. Develop a preliminary website with mentions interesting and unique birds and information on what is being developed in other wildlife that can be found in the park. addition to trip planning information.

50 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Phase 2: Expanded Network linked page must be captivating and user friendly. The home page should be dominated 1. This phase includes the following by visuals of different types of visitors actions:Self Guided Walking Tour – both enjoying different opportunities associated the map/brochure and audio version. with the a visit to the State Capitol, such as taking the tour, perusing the interpretive 2. Develop the Guide to Plants. panels, attending a special event, etc. Captions 3. Develop the nal park website. should be brief, identifying the opportunity and providing a link on where to get more Phase 3: Major Investment: Interpretive information about that opportunity. The home Panels page could also have “didjaknows” to pique interest in the interpretive stories told at SCSP. 1. Capitol Mall Interpretive Panel Cluster Links should provide access to the remainder of the information on the site, including: 2. Willson Park Interpretive Panel Cluster • Driving and parking directions and 3. Capitol Park Interpretive Panel Cluster printable map; • Downloadable version of the SCSP Interpretive Delivery Concepts Walking Tour Map/Brochure; • Downloadable version of the Guide To and Strategies Plants and Wildlife in the Park; • Overviews of the key stories included in Website the interpretive network; The primary intent of the website is to: • Upcoming events; • Motivate viewers to visit the park (which • Contact information; will include making them aware of the • Directions on how to download the interpretive opportunities and special application for the GPS-based Self-Guided events); Walking Tour; • Guide visitors to parking or entry points. • Information about interpretive and As a secondary objective it offers links to educational opportunities and events in the additional information or resources for people State Capitol Building (through a link); looking for detail on the history or any of • Downloadable version of the Historic the key stories introduced in the interpretive Salem Bicycle Tour. network. Self-guided Walking Tour Key Themes/sub-themes/storylines This is the focal point of the interpretive All themes can be included in the links, but the opportunities associated with the park. In other primary themes guiding the development of words, it is the strategy with the most detail the home page should be marketing themes, and coverage of the stories. It is intended to: such as, “You can spend a whole day enjoying • Motivate visitors to explore all parts of the an array of opportunities at the State Capitol.” park; • Motivate visitors to visit the interior of the Description and Concept Capitol Building and State Library; The home page must market the SCSP • Pique interest in the stories so visitors are experience, but also market the website in motivated to go to other sources (such as order to motivate viewers to keep moving the web page) for more information; through it. To do so, the home page and every • Provide a detailed introduction to the key stories at SCSP.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 51 As a secondary objective it is intended to • Aware that it is a state park; motivate people to visit other historic sites in • Feel comfortable in their ability to nd the area, including historic Downtown Salem their way around; and the Willamette Heritage Center. • Aware of the interpretive opportunities; • Curious enough to visit at least one of Key Themes/sub-themes/storylines those opportunities. All themes will be communicated within the tour. Key Themes/sub-themes/storylines No interpretive themes except those that might Description and Concept be communicated within interpretive tidbits. The tour will focus on information associated with key features, landscapes and viewscapes Description and Concept to reinforce the themes and sub-themes This type of panel, with the OPRD logo and a identi ed for the park. Key stops include, but “Welcome” to State Capitol State Park at the are not limited to, the following: top, features a map drawn from an oblique • Dr. John McLaughlin statue aerial perspective to give the buildings a • Circuit Rider statue 3-dimensional appearance. This is important • Liberty Bell replica for this park because visitors are most likely • Jason Lee statue to orient themselves by visible features, • Parade of Flags (with a focus on the ags especially the Capitol Building. The map will of the Native American tribes) highlight the park and include names of the • Friezes speci c park areas (Willson Park, Capitol • Location with view of the Capitol Building Mall, and Capitol Park) but within a context • Location with view of Willamette that includes all approaches, Willamette University University, Willamette Heritage Center, and • Location with view of Supreme Court the edge of the Salem Downtown Historic Building District. All buildings will be labeled as • Historic columns in Capitol Park well as all statutes, fountains and signi cant features. Each panel will be identi ed by Ideally this walking tour would include sites the entry point, such as Center Street North, within the Capitol Building accessible without or Willson Park NW. An inset map would a personal guide. show the park in the context of the greater neighborhood, which includes the downtown, Comments Willamette University and Willamette Heritage The tour will be available in a map/brochure Center. The primary version of this panel format and in audio format through GPS-based will include a sidebar containing a historic technology designed to be used with a personal photo relating to the area or point of interest listening device, such as a smart phone with an around that particular panel along with a tidbit application. of information. The sidebar will also make visitors aware of the walking tour and the SCSP Orientation Panels opportunities in the Capitol Building.

Location Comments Major and minor access points into the park A primary and secondary version of this panel (see Site Map). will be used. The primary version will be Objectives located at major entry points as depicted on The intent of this strategy is to make visitors: the Site Plan. The secondary version will be • Feel welcome to the park; located at secondary entry points. 52 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK In the nal design stage of work, the shape One possible design concept is to use an aerial of these panels and/or the interpretive panels image of the site to contrast the old Capitol could be customized to re ect the shape of with the new with text blocks focusing on key the Capitol Building or the State or Oregon to changes and the reasons for those changes. provide additional attraction power. This should include the change in orientation, change in design, change in size, addition of Capitol Mall Interpretive Panel government buildings, etc. Cluster Panel 2: A Modern Capitol Location This panel focuses on the elements and The north end of the Mall (see Site Plan) features that re ect a more modern Capitol including the stripped-down classical design, Objectives which was in vogue at the time of construction, The intent of these panels is to: and the ceremonial approach consisting of • Focus attention on the Capitol Building a formal building group with an open vista and associated landscape and buildings re ecting the City Beautiful Movement in such a way that visitors can ‘see’ the launched by the Columbian Exposition stories in the array and design of those in Chicago in 1893. One possible design buildings. Those stories include the forces concept is to use an image from the time it that catalyzed the abrupt shift from the was completed to highlight these signi cant past in terms of design and layout of the elements, and also to highlight that many of building and grounds, and other factors the other buildings were not yet in place. that in uenced what we see today. • Inspire people to take advantage of other Panel 3: An Always Evolving Government interpretive opportunities at Oregon’s State This panel focuses on the changes that have Capitol. occurred since the original building was constructed, with text blocks focusing the Key Themes/sub-themes/storylines reasons for the changes. Those reasons should Theme 1: Every iteration of the State Capitol include the political context and architectural and grounds – as a whole – re ects the social, trends of the time as well as other forces and political and historical context of the era in in uences. One possible design concept is to which it was developed. use a current aerial image as a backdrop for highlighting changes, such as the expansion Sub-Theme 1-2: The Capitol Building of the Capitol Building and the addition of and Mall you see today represents a major buildings along the mall. change from the past, fueled by the need and desire for a modern public space. Willson Park Interpretive Panel Sub-theme 1-3: The design of the primary Cluster building and grounds re ected the time during which they were designed and built. Location The west end of Willson Park (see Site Plan) Description and Concept At this time we envision the following panels: Objectives The intent of these panels is to: Panel 1: An Opportunity Presents Itself • Make people aware that the viewscape This panel focuses on the forces that catalyzed today is the result of different in uences the change in orientation and layout following through time. the re that burned the second statehouse.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 53 • Inspire people to visit other historic sites highlighted. One possible design concept is in the area including historic Downtown to use the same approach as for Panel #2. Salem and the Willamette Heritage Center. However, this panel should also include • Inspire people to take advantage of other images of the building on re or the ashes of interpretive opportunities at Oregon’s State the old building with a text block focusing on Capitol. the opportunity for a new state Capitol and a reference to the Capitol Mall panels. Key Themes/sub-themes/storylines Theme 1: Every iteration of the State Capitol Capitol Park Interpretive Panel and grounds – as a whole – re ects the social, Cluster political and historical context of the era in which it was developed. Location In the center of the park area to the west of the Sub-theme 1-1: The State Capitol is in Circuit Rider (see Site Plan) Salem in this location due to the political Objectives power in the state at the time Oregon The intent of these signs is to: became a state. • Inspire people to take advantage of other Sub-theme 1-3: The design of the primary interpretive opportunities at Oregon’s State building and grounds re ected the time Capitol. during which it was designed and built. • Make people aware that the viewscape today is the result of different in uences Description and Concept through time. The following panels will be included in this • Expand the visitor’s perception of the cluster: extent of the array of key events/forces that Panel 1: Why Here? had impact on Oregon’s history. This panel focuses on the establishment of the Capitol in Salem and the role of the Methodists Key Themes/sub-themes/storylines in bringing it to Salem and having it located on this site. One possible design concept is to Sub-theme 1-3: The design of the primary use a time line approach to highlight the reason building and grounds re ected the time during the Methodists were here originally (Lee’s which it was designed and built. mission), the expansion of their interests Theme 2: The Capitol grounds retain elements and landholdings (including establishing the re ecting different in uences that affected University and the platting of Salem), and the Oregon and the Capitol over time. move of the Territorial Government to this site. Description and Concept Panel 2: What Does a State Capitol look like We envision the following panels in this in the mid 19th century? This panel focuses cluster: on the building (and burning) of the rst statehouse. One possible design concept is to Panel 1: The Changing Face of Capitol use an image of the rst building to highlight Park. This panel uses the array of features its design and the functions that took place in the park to highlight the in uences that inside the building. caused it to change over the years. One possible design concept is to use a series of Panel 3: What does it look like 15 years historic images and drawings to document the later? changes. Supporting text will emphasize that This panel focuses on the design of the second the changes, such as the addition of speci c statehouse and how it re ected the context statues, do not necessarily re ect widespread of the times. The functions should also be 54 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK beliefs or public mandates, but rather are joins a network of state parks in the mid- the result of shifting centers of power and Willamette Valley, and when you connect in uence. This should lead into the next panel. their dots, a previously invisible picture emerges. Champoeg, Ft Yamhill, Willamette Panel 2: So Who Was Important? Mission and Thompson’s Mills were each key This panel uses the statues visible from places at different times in Oregon’s history. this point to pay homage to the fur trade, One possible design concept is to use a time missionaries in general and Methodists in line across the top as an organizer for a key particular, but at the same time to point out that historic scene and peak event date from each lots of other people and groups had signi cant mentioned park, with a map showing where in uence, including Native Americans, people they are in a sidebar or as an inset. from other countries, individuals like Sam Boardman, those that sponsored and passed Guide to Plants the Beach Bill, and countless others. One The intent of the publication is to: possible design concept is to use a collage of • Satisfy those who are interested in nding historic images with a line of supporting text to out more about the plants while piquing highlight an array of groups and individuals. It their interest in the history of the evolution will be important to have the collective image of the park grounds. give the impression of an endless number of people. This should lead into the next Key Themes/sub-themes/storylines panel which uses the statue of the Pioneer to • Theme 3: The grounds, buildings and represent the common person. features re ect evolution through different eras of history when different groups held Panel 3: Who Played a Role. This panel uses power. the statue of The Pioneer atop the Capitol Building in part to pay homage to the pioneers Description and Concept and spirit that drove the settlement of Oregon This simple publication is intended to be a by EuroAmericans and the eventual disposition reference guide rather than an actual tour. of the country as part of the United States. It It should be arranged in such a way that it also focuses on Oregonian citizens as a key is easy for visitors to nd the information in the ongoing evolution of the state. One on a plant in which they are interested. One possible design concept is to use a timeline possible approach is to label the plants so that to highlight accomplishments by the general visitors can easily look up the species. Another public, beginning with pioneers that braved the possibility is to use bed maps, but that would Oregon Trail and Native Americans that helped require updating the booklet every time a them. The key is to show that the citizen can planting scheme was altered. make a difference either individually or in concert with other citizens. Consider adding a In the introduction to each area of the park, rhetorical sidebar asking the viewer to envision interpretive information could be included that their version of what things might be like in focuses on historic approaches to landscaping the future. and reasons for the selection of certain species. Panel 4: People Create Parks. State Historic Salem Bicycle Tour The intent of this tour is to: government changed the Capitol Mall into • Provide easily accessible information to a a state park in 2007, transforming it from speci c user group; merely a gathering place with a few historical • Pique interest in the cultural history accessories into a more full-bodied experience associated with the site; capable of telling Oregon’s story. The Capitol

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 55 • Motivate users to visit other historical sites in the area.

Key Themes/sub-themes/storylines All themes and sub-themes would be used to guide development of the tour. Additional themes might be necessary to interpret historic features and sites outside the park area. Description and Concept This tour, using a GPS system tied to an application on smart phones or other device, will include the Self-Guided Walking Tour of the park plus Willamette University, Willamette Heritage Center and historic downtown Salem at a minimum. A map will be necessary to accompany the audio delivery of information. This would be a collaborative venture with other entities.

56 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 08: Site Improvement Strategies

OPRD has completed site improvement 5. Fit interpretive information stops and way- recommendations for the park. They have nding signs into effective “capture” points been based on the parkwide goals in Chapter in the park, for grabbing the attention of Five and a set of site improvement strategies visitors. that were completed for this plan. They 6. Encourage city improvement of pedestrian have also been based on the concepts and crossings at street intersections. strategies that evolved from the park history, 7. Enhance Winter and Chemeketa Street bike park context and park visitor assessments. routes through the park. The objectives attempt to balance the existing 8. Recognize and incorporate: Capitol qualities and meaning of the park with the Building Master Plan, DAS-commissioned aim of ful lling the vision for the future of the Greenworks Plan for west end of Willson place. Park, ODOT site plan, Willamette University Master Plan, Salem way- nding Recommendations are shown in two forms: strategy and bike routes. 1. Project development matrix 9. Open vegetation where needed to create a 2. Site Improvement Plan welcoming and safe feeling. 10. Provide spaces for events and gatherings. Site Improvement Strategies 11. Rehab plantings and add color spots/ ground cover to enliven views. Parkwide 12. Provide attractive benches, tables, trash 1. Protect the Capitol Mall open space from cans, lighting and other site furnishing intruding buildings and other installations. 13. Provide for universal access. 2. Protect and enhance the existing layout 14. Seek management practices that are and character of the three parks within the sustainable, low maintenance and cost park. effective. 3. Provide areas within the park that suit the 15. Place future remembrances and honorary needs of different user groups. features as per rule criteria and review 4. Retain east/west axial view from Capitol process. to Commerce Building and to Executive Services Building and north/south view through the Park Mall. PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 57 Vegetation Plan and Site Furnishings Strategies

Parkwide Building Foundation Plantings 1. Honor the open spaces and enhance their a. Use medium to tall evergreen shrubs use for park purposes (coniferous & broadleaf) against building 2. Use the existing plant palette foundations in scale with the buildings characteristics of each of the three “parks” with more height at corners and away from 3. Eliminate blind spots and dead spots, windows replace old plants b. Keep window views open 4. Add seasonal color at ground level in c. Replace failing/aging plants. Place new targeted spots plants far enough from buildings to avoid 5. Enhance groundcover where bare, extend crowding. to de ne spaces d. Add ground cover in bare areas 6. Create consistent look for furnishings e. Continue rhododendron rehab around 7. Plan for long-term tree replacement needs Capitol Building & replace columnar yews (cherry trees in mall area especially) f. Provide low evergreen and blooming 8. Remove/thin selected trees that are shrubs around Labor and Industries crowded Building, due to continuous “porch” 9. Seek solutions that are sustainable, low g. Recognize and incorporate ODOT planting maintenance and cost effective plan h. Manage plantings for visual openness

58 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Project Matrix Project number codes are shown on the Site Improvement Plan.

No. Project Type Description Parkwide Improvements Replace trees and Identify trees and shrubs that are in poor condition or have been damaged. Prune P1 shrubs, where Rehab to improve, if possible. Replace in kind if conditions allow, or replace with new needed species that match design intent for the area of the park. Remove marked Certain trees have been identi ed for removal without replacement, where they P2 Rehab trees are too closely spaced, malformed or degraded Complete a planting plan for ground cover areas shown on the plan. Select species that are appropriate for the design intent and conditions and install P3 Add ground cover New within areas shown on the site plan. Bed shapes and extent may be ne-tuned in the eld. Complete planting plan for existing and new “color spots” that could include Rehab/ P4 Add color spots annual and/or perennial owering, low growing plants. Plan for year round New color in various beds. Try to avoid high maintenance. Identify trees and shrubs at the base of major buildings that are in poor condition, have overgrown the windows and doors, or have been damaged. Replace with species of a form and type that matches classic, formal foundation Rehab foundation P5 Rehab planting intent. (Tall on corners and at large wall areas w/o window, moderate plantings height at windows and between taller plants. Do not use low, small species that are not in scale with the buildings.) Use varieties that will not outgrown their positions too quickly and require annual pruning. Select one bench, trash can and table design and provide it throughout the park. P6 Site furnishings Rehab Choose style with simple lines to t in all three sub-parks. Add where-ever needed. Use paver base to allow easy changes of location over time.

Continue to use modern style in mall and “historic” style in Willson and Capitol P7 Lighting Rehab Parks

Work with an arborist and a structural engineer to determine the best approach P8 Cherry trees Rehab for long term replacement of the trees, only as needed. Park Mall Improvements Capitol Master Plan and City of Salem Project: Redo north Capitol stairway as per plan or similar. Preserve magnolia trees and Court St. crossing PM1 Rehab marble stelae, include ADA ramps. Remove parking. Install paver-based plaza plaza across Court Street to Wall of Water. Reduce lanes. Designate a bus drop off area. Construct small plaza extension at north end of the Park Mall, as per plan or Extend plaza for PM2 Rehab similar, to contain interpretive panels as looking south at Capitol. Plaza should interp. signs be large enough to contain up to 4 - ten square foot panels set below the view. Locations are shown on the plan with red dot. Final design and installation PM3 Way- nding signs New method to be determined. Work with City of Salem. Two restroom buildings anking Chemeketa Street bike route need to be moved Relocate PM4 Rehab back off of the travel lane, if feasible. Route bikes around them for the interim. restrooms One could be placed on the other side of the mall, if desired and feasible. Add small tables and seating in up to 4 garden alcoves, adjacent to Wall of PM5 Add eating areas New Water. Lawn may be converted to compacted material or pavers.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 59 City of Salem/DAS Project: Redo intersection of Center and Summer to better Center St crossing PM6 Rehab accommodate pedestrian crossing, similar to Court St crossing. Consider plaza improving other crossings as well. Willson Park Improvements Remove the existing pathways and plazas at the west end that do not conform to WP1 West end redesign New the Greenworks site plan. Install new pathways and planting panels as per the plan. Complete a planting plan for the new beds. Potential honorary This location may be under consideration for a potential honorary feature site. WP2 New feature site Consider a second location at the opposite corner of the park. Extend plaza for Create a small plaza extension, as per the plan, to contain several interpretive WP3 New interp. signs signs, to be viewed facing the Capitol. Way- nding Locations are shown on the plan with red dot. Final design and installation WP4 New signs method to be determined. Work with City of Salem. Open Winter St. Thin and move back shrubbery blocking views along Winter Street through the WP5 Rehab view park. Assess and redesign the area around the base of the gazebo. Add a universally Gazebo WP6 Rehab accessible ramp and foundation plantings, remove existing stairs. Consolidate, improvements remove or screen utility boxes. Restore and relocate the Liberty Bell replica to be with other statues. Per plan WP7 Liberty Bell Rehab or other. Create openings in Walk of Flags for easier lawn use, per plan but placed to WP8 Lawn access Rehab work with existing ag placement. WP9 Restore fountain Rehab Restore Breyman Fountain to historic appearance. Make operable, if feasible. Add low fence, similar to fence around Waite Fountain except with straight WP10 Add low fence New pro le, at base of Tribal Flags. Deter cutting through. Move children’s’ Move the Parade of Animals sculptures and the Beaver Family, to a new grass WP11 Rehab statues panel at the west end of Willson Park. Winter & Court City of Salem/DAS Project: Redo intersection to better accommodate WP12 New Xing pedestrian crossing, similar to Court St crossing. City of Salem/DAS Project: Redo intersection to better accommodate Winter & State WP13 New pedestrian crossing, similar to Court St crossing. Consider improving other Xing crossings as well. Capitol Park Improvements CP1 Add walkway New Add universally accessible pathway from State to Court Street, as per plan. Rehab Garden Pride building to be used as an OPRD park of ce and maintenance shop and yard. Extend fencing similar to plan. May add gate to CP2 Garden Pride Rehab secure shop and yard. Remove small paths around building. Allow for potential new front entrance on the west wall. Improve shrub screening. Create space for public interaction. Move chiller and boiler out of park, or screen. Remove shrubs except at plaza corners. Extend pavement as per plan. Remove Enlarge Circuit CP3 Rehab every other lamp post so that they alternate from one side of the walk to the Rider plaza other. Move unneeded lamps to other locations where they may be needed. New plaza at Design and install new plaza pavement as per plan, to contain column remnants CP4 New columns and interpretive panels. CP5 Liberty Bell Rehab Move Liberty Bell to be near other statues in this park area. Locations are shown on the plan with red dot. Final design and installation CP6 Way- nding signs New method to be determined. Work with City of Salem.

60 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK PM7 New Mini New State Capitol State Park Crossing Plaza Interpretive Center St NE Display Center St NE

PM3 PM3 Site Improvement Plan

PM2 ODOT Courtyard Labor and Redesign PM3 PM3 ODOT Sprague

Industries Fountain KEY Interpretation Panels

Orientation Signs PM5 PM5 Other Site Features (Statues, Fountains)

Buildings PM4 PM3 PM3 Bike Bike PM3 Project Code Racks Racks PM4 PM3 Paved Plazas PM3 The PM4 Move Restrooms Move Fine Graveled Areas / or Paving Winter St NE

Park Mall Capitol St NE Existing Trees

New Trees

Trees to be Removed Alternative Restroom Location Restroom Alternative Public State PM3 PM3 Color Spot Planting Beds Services Library Groundcover and Shrubs

Grass

PM5 Sunken Terrace PM5 Crossing Areas

Wall of Water 50 100 North PM3 0 150 PM3 PM3 PM3 Restore Potential Relocate WP13 PM1 Historic Honorary Childrens’ New Mini New New Liberty Fountain Feature Site Statues Crossing Plaza Court St NE Crossing Court St NE Bell Site Extend Fence Low Wall Plaza Low Wall

Low Wall Low Wall WP4 CP6 CP6 WP2 WP5 New New WP4 Grass Grass Panels Panels CP5 PM3 PM3 CP2 WP14 Garden WP8 Statue WP8 Pride

Capitol Statue WP9 WP3 WP11 WP1 Waite Willson Park WP10 Fountain CP4 Walk of Flags WP7 Park CP3 CP1 WP6 WP8 Capitol Statue Columns WP8 Building Cottage St NE Waverly St NE Waverly

WP4 WP5 CP6 WP4 CP6

New Convert west Gazebo New Mini Liberty New Path New Plaza & Expand Circuit Interpretive end to Crossing Plaza Bell State St NE & Pavement Interpretive Rider Plaza Display new layout WP12 at Statues Display

Proposed Willamette University Gateway 62 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 09: Operational Park Management Strategies

These operational park management strategies 2. Remembrances and Artwork Proposals  outline some speci c areas of work that will Works of art and remembrances on be studied and completed by OPRD park park grounds shall be of the highest management in the coming months and years. quality and re ect subjects of lasting This work includes primarily administrative statewide signi cance for the people and coordination understandings and of Oregon. Such installations will processes that support management decisions. be selectively placed to protect open Decision, detailed designs and partnership space, preserve views and vistas to and understandings that are completed will build from the Capitol, and conserve options on the park-wide management goals and site for placement of works by future improvement strategies that have been outlined generations.  in the prior chapters of this plan. A policy to address individual remembrances will be developed to 1. Management Understandings with accommodate requests that will be Other Landowners or Partners both in keeping with the management OPRD will complete agreements regarding objectives for the park, and be the use or management of the park sustainable for future generations. with other stakeholders as appropriate. These may include the Department of 3. Safety and Security Administrative Services, the Legislative A top park priority is to provide a safe Administration Commission (LAC), the environment for people that use the park Oregon Department of Transportation, to access the of ce buildings or as visitors Salem-Keizer Transit, and the City of pursuing a recreational experience. Safety Salem. These agreements will provide and security measures will include:  a clear understanding and direction for Working in concert with State Police management of resources within the Capitol Mall patrol, to provide SCSP, and resources bordering the park scheduling that maximizes enforcement that are either impacted by or may impact presence.  management objectives for the park. Establishing signed regulations including park operation hours to educate visitors and aide enforcement personnel.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 63 Designing and locating park amenities and around the park and or activities that effectively serve park visitors that might be deemed detrimental to while helping to discourage undesirable park resources or visitors. activities. Maximizing line-of-sight and visibility 5. Vegetation Management by managing vegetation to eliminate Grounds maintenance standards will be blind spots and concealed areas. established to achieve an appearance that Inspecting park furniture, walkways is appropriate for the site and compatible and trees to identify potential hazards with the buildings. These will include: and required maintenance on a routine  Open spaces and view sheds will be schedule. preserved and building foundation Assessing exterior lighting to provide plantings will compliment and not adequate coverage with proper spacing compete with building architecture. of walkway lighting and vegetation  In order to achieve maintenance management. standards with existing staff and Creating and maintaining a park budget, attention will be paid to Emergency Action Plan and regular plant material selections that have coordination with local emergency low maintenance requirements while service providers. providing suitable characteristics. Utilization of additional resources like 4. Facility Use and Events volunteers can supplement park staff The Capitol Mall design provides and allow for additional plantings. open spaces for citizens to be able  A tree management plan will identify to interact with and participate in preferred crown densities for different State Government. Large gatherings areas of the park and establish a policy are common and an important use of for tree removal and replacement. State Capitol State Park. In addition to groups participating in the political 6. Garden Pride Building process, the park is a venue for a host Presently Garden Pride serves as the of activities and special events. These park’s maintenance and of ce building events need to be managed in way that and houses the boiler unit for heating the provides for the safety and well-being Capitol Building and the chiller unit for of participants and the protection of the cooling the Supreme Court and Justice park’s resources. buildings. This building also provides A policy will be developed that the quarters for the DAS landscape crew. identi es the process by which Ideally OPRD would like to see DAS gatherings and events will be permitted provide an alternate facility to house and scheduled. Guidelines and criteria its landscape crew. Also, relocation of will be established to ensure adequate the boiler unit and chiller unit would measures for safety, proper sanitation make more space available to provide and provide a means of communication of ce space for Park Rangers and a park and noti cation for those involved with headquarters of ce to accommodate or affected by events. Event requests business operations and visitor services. will be reviewed to identify potential There is also need to accommodate con icts with business operations in volunteers to supplement maintenance staff and support an interpretive program.

64 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK The appearance and functionality of the 8. Sustainability building and parking area need to be Maintenance and management of the managed to maximize the limited space park will “take a long view” and include and create an aesthetic that is in keeping measures to minimize resource inputs with the surrounding area. and maximize the resources used as much as possible while still satisfying park 7. Visitor Services objectives. Sustainability measures will In an effort to provide a “State Park“ include: experience at the State Capitol and Utilize mulching mowers to minimize encourage visitation, suitable recreation organic material disposal and reduce amenities will be identi ed and promoted. reliance on chemical fertilizers. These could include: Landscape with species that are Installation of additional bike racks, attractive and suitable, but also easier café style tables, and seating. to care for. Accommodations made for low- Continue to transition away from 2 intensity outdoor recreation activities cycle power equipment and replace such as table games, and ying disc with electric or 4 cycle. use. Continue to manage energy demands Nature appreciation opportunities in the through steps such as scheduling park will be identi ed and expanded. fountain operation for periods of high This could include, for example, visitation, and use of energy-ef cient identifying existing and potential bird utilities and alternative energy sources, species, and working with wildlife such as solar trash compactor units. specialists to provide features and plantings that will attract a variety of birds. Interpretation of the cultural and historic resources of the park including historic remembrances and tree and plant identi cation. Coordination of tours, presentation and displays with LAC visitor services which operate within the Capitol building. Provide an expanded schedule of operation for the three water features in the park.

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 65 66 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK 10: Appendices

A. Stakeholder and Technical Advisory Groups 9. DAS Facilities Management Stakeholder Group 10. Marion County Historical Society 1. Department of Administrative Services 11. Wilbur Bluhm, Horticulturalist (DAS) 12. Tribal Commission 2. Willamette University 13. Travel Salem 3. Go Downtown Salem! 14. Salem cycling 4. Oregon Capitol Foundation 5. Legislative Administration B. Stakeholder and Technical 6. Salem Chamber of Commerce Advisory Group Comments 7. Steve Dickey, Salem Keizer Cherriots 8. Can Do Neighborhood Association Summary 9. City of Salem Public Works 1. Who visits the park: 10. City of Salem, Vision 2020 staff Political rallies, recreation groups representative like cyclists, fountain users, 11. Capitol Mall Patrol Frisbee/volleyball matches, local 12. Mission Mill resident “yard”, sitting/relaxing, 13. North Central Neighborhood and lunch area. Association Look at surveying users and 14. Salem Planning and Facilities potential users on site through Technical Advisory Group student volunteers. Ask them 1. Oregon Dept. of Transportation what kind of experiences they Building want. Why are they coming now? 2. Labor and Industries Building Could access state workers through 3. Public Services Building e-mail.  4. State Library Building Look at Travel Salem data on 5. DAS Parking visitation.  6. Salem Landmark Commission Easiest way to get more visitors is 7. State Historic Preservation Of ce to look at who is coming now, and 8. DAS Facilities and Planning expand on that, or offer attractions

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 67 that existing groups would want. Need to nd out what the Farmers 4. Neighborhood Association issues: Market organizers are thinking for Don’t like the restroom placement the future when their site will be on Chemeketa site line from cancelled by building construction. neighborhood to the downtown. Courtney will provide a contact. Were not consulted by DAS before restrooms were installed. Blocks 2. Security: the view and creates a choke point, Can be a scary at Willson and and a sense that this is where Capitol Park when dark, due to transients would sleep. (Doors are gatherings of indigents and youth locked at night.) groups. More lighting and opening up some vegetation could help, 5. Park context, interconnectedness and automatic on-off mechanism. way- nding: Improve the circulation through Important to consider the park in these areas to encourage more pass- context and to recognize the many through traf c. opportunities for pedestrian and Manage vegetation to avoid having bicycle connections, and street places for people to hide orientation improvements that are consistent with the rest of the 3. Improvements to related city streets downtown and university plans. and crossings: Winter and Chemeketa are the main City has bond funding for re-paving cycling and walking routes through in 2012 and could redo crosswalks or adjacent to the park. Riverfront between park and university. via Union Street connection is Supports crosswalk improvements important too. at major and other crosswalks Look at the Vision 2020 associated with the park. Infrastructure, Design and Signage One commenter was concerned that work. Travel Salem Task Force narrowing Court Street would back addressed way- nding including traf c up to the east, during rush coming in from I-5. Vision 2020 hours, etc. area is bounded by Shipping, City is considering making some Capitol, Edgewater and Bush Park. one way streets into two way to Goal for this park could be to improve vehicle access. Would bridge the gap from the mall to create a different pedestrian downtown. crossing situation at crosswalks due OPRD supports the Vision 2020 to the need to then look both ways. effort. City is open to closing Chemeketa Currently buses have trouble for events. The traf c volume is dropping off on Court due to not high enough to disallow that. direction of one way street relative Designate a bus drop off area at the to the bus door. Capitol for redesign of that area. Want to raise the level of heritage Route ADA path from ADA tourism for Salem. Work with parking to building entrances. Mission Mill, Capitol Foundation

68 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK and Vision 2020 (Virginia Green) the Park Mall. and SHPO heritage experts. Join Make sure that way nding signs t in the completion of a walking tour with setting, don’t add to clutter. map. Add plant labels to trees and major Look at the new pedestrian shrubs. promenade along the railroad as Correct species identi cation of a model for better pedestrian/bike trees. connections. Themes have been extensively University will be building one reworked based on Heritage more building on State Street, Conservation views creating even more need for open Place way nding sign at ADA space next door. parking. Willson Park corner funnels Be sure that way nding signs t university student pedestrians to in well and work with downtown downtown shopping mall. Needs signs. improvement to work better. Put an information kiosk about the Proposed improvement will be inside of the Capitol, outside of the coming out in February in the Capitol. university plan. The Greenworks Put a Travel Salem kiosk on the redesign appears to solve this grounds. problem. Use pavers to interpret the three Use orientation to inform visitors branches of government. about attractions in state buildings such as restaurants and art 7. Monuments, memorials and art works:  installations, museums, etc.. New request coming through for a Consider expanding the park to WWII memorial on the mall.  include the rest of the mall. Salem is creating art walks and Don’t cut corners on installations that could happen in implementation, phase it in. park.  Need a way to manage proposed 6. Interpretation and symbolism/themes installations for location and for the site, way nding: design, and even to manage This park is the site for the seat of whether they are allowed or not.  Oregon’s government. Need to Note the Tribal Walk of Flags convey this to visitors and that it is separately from the main one.  the main reason why people come Look at Washington State policy  to the place. The state is trying to Willamette University has a policy nd ways to educate Oregonians 8. Answers to the “three questions” posed about government--what the to stakeholders, (What does the State structure and purpose are. Many Park mean to you? What do you want citizens don’t know. to see this place become? What does it Connect with the museums and need to do for your group or interest?): spaces in the public buildings at the The State Capitol is a re ection of park. the whole government of the state. Consolidate the interpretive signs in All Oregonians should be able to

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 69 see it as “My Capitol/Capital” All three branches of government Making it more park-like means are located within or adjacent to making it more user friendly, more the park (legislative, judicial and welcoming to all. executive). Find ways to convey Generate more activity by this to visitors about how the site providing support facilities and represents decision-making for the attractions. citizens of Oregon, in a tangible Encourage families to use the area manner on site. by supporting picnicking, play and Look to the park’s context to solve education. the larger parking problem. Two Plan needs to speak to its context new parking garages are proposed and connectivity with it. for the red and yellow lots. Take Remember the majority of patrons parking off of Chemeketa and are state workers, and the majority Court where you can. of visitors are coming to the Capitol Need to come up with a clear Building. design strategy for the landscaping. Concentrate on good management Right now it is a mixed bad with and maintenance to encourage little purpose. Think about how responsible visitor behavior. landscape design should convey the Look at improved lighting to symbolism of the site, support the brighten dark areas and to avoid buildings and support the goal of creating shadows that could add being sustainable. to the perception of a security problem. 9. Park History  Now that OPRD is managing the Several corrections on dates, places park, more local residents appear to names, events and references. be using the place as a park. Keep 10. Vegetation doing what is attracting them, i.e. Be carefully selective about running the fountains seasonally, removing trees. Consider pruning allowed Frisbee and volleyball, etc. and limbing up rst. Support the goal of completing Make sure that foundation plantings design review standards for are in scale with the buildings and future proposals for the park, and are not planted too close. Consult more signage for orientation & local experts for selection of interpretation. species for color spots and ground Recognize that the park is a major covers. connector for getting people from east to west in that part of the city. 11. Vendors and cafes Concentrate on improvements to Need to look at policy and update enhance the ow and experience. it. Talk with existing café owners in  The capitol is the “people’s the mall area. building” so this should be the “people’s park”.

70 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK Be sure to arrange sites and seating, with ample garbage collection and security from vandalism. Must look good and be easy to manage. Consider how to provide utilities.

12. Restroom buildings There are good reasons to move the buildings back, and there are great challenges to doing that. The structures are not complete units that can be easily moved. They would need to be taken down and rebuilt. Utility connections and parking garage structure are very limiting. May not be feasible or cost effective to move them. Lots of work went into placing them where they are. Use other methods to route bikes safely around them.

13. Natural play One commenter did not feel this use was appropriate to the Capitol grounds.

14. Park Management Rehab Garden Pride (of ce, secure yard, remove boiler and cooler) Recondition and maintain monuments Consider how you will handle recycling, cigarette butt disposal,

PARKWIDE PLAN 2010 71 72 STATE CAPITOL STATE PARK