When I began my interview with Steve Lathrop, a business reporter for the Albany Democrat Herald, he described the city of Albany as somewhat conservative, yet was quick to clarify that it was at the same time rather diverse and welcoming. I have never been to Albany myself, although I have undoubtedly driven by it many times on the drive between Oregon's two largest cities, Portland and Eugene. In fact, the location of Albany, considered the hub of Willamette Valley, is what Steve likes most about it. The city lies at the confluence of the Calapooia River and the Willamette River, and although it is most definitely a small city, with a population between 45,000 and 50,000 people, Steve insists that due to its location, it retains most of the perks of a large city. It is a quick drive to Oregon's three largest cities, as well as equidistant from the Oregon Coast and the Cascade Mountains.
Inhabited by Native Americans long before the first European settler arrived in 1845, Albany is one of Oregon's oldest cities. Steve emphasizes that the city uses its historical heritage to its advantage, for "it's done a great job preserving and highlighting its historic sites, particularly the historic homes." If one were to visit the city, taking Historic Homes Tour, as well as visiting Timber Linn Park and the Albany Regional Museum, is considered a must. According to Steve, an ideal day in Albany would consist of strolling downtown and through the parks along the Willamette River, which splits North Albany from downtown. The Regional Museum is located downtown, and if one were to visit now they would see the construction of a carousel that is scheduled to be up and running in a few years time. Along with the historic sites, Albany is also famous for its many antiques dealers. Come in the winter and you may be able to take a horse-drawn carriage ride to take in the historic homes all lit up for the season. Cap off a perfect day in the city with dinner at Cappies, or Sybaris, Steve's personal favorite restaurant. A quick look at the eclectic menus of these restaurants, that are constantly changing, would assure anyone that gourmet food is not only to be found in big cities.
Nonetheless, Albany is a small city, and for the most part the population remains conservative. Yet Albany is a friendly city and according to Steve, the most progressive city in Linn County. The populace is greatly invested in education and making Albany livable. There are numerous local events held throughout the year, such as River Rhythms, which features free national and international music acts each Thursday night throughout the summer. August brings the Art and Air Festival, which consists of hot air balloons, art, and music at Timber Linn Park. Albany is also famous for its Veteran's Day Parade, which for many, many years was the largest of its kind west of the Mississippi. Steve told me that all of these events are well attended, and representative of the kind of community that only a small population can offer.
Like many cities in Oregon, Albany used to be a Timber town, but is now more invested in the metals industry and of course, the production of grass seed in the surrounding environs. The town has a growing Hispanic population, which Steve claims has led to several wonderful Hispanic restaurants. In fact, Albany is the third fastest growing city in Oregon. Despite the recession, which has been tough for the county, employment has risen and seems to have now stabilized. Albany retains close ties to Linn-Benton Community College and Oregon State University, which Steve believes is important to the future of the city. There is a considerable effort being put into creating new businesses, and Steve is adamant that Albany will continue to grow and remain the key economic force in Linn County. Next time I am driving between Portland and Eugene, I am excited to stop and see for myself.
Do you want to purchase your first or second home in Oregon? If so, don't hesitate to check out properties that you can rent before you buy. Buy a rental property and test-drive for a few nights to make sure it fits your needs and lifestyle and to make sure you're investing in the perfect property. It's currently the growing trend in the real estate industry.
Kiran is a third culture kid, whose love of maps was cultivated from a very young age. Having been raised the daughter of two diplomats, she had visited thirty-six countries by her twenty-first birthday. She has driven across the United States five times, and in light of all her travels, is adamant that America is one of the most beautiful countries on earth.
No comments:
Post a Comment