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Sustainable City Year: Redmond, OR

This guide supports the 2015-2016 Sustainable City Year Program (SCYP) partner, Redmond, Oregon.

Redmond, Oregon

From its inception Redmond has had its eyes set firmly on the future. Initially founded in 1905 in anticipation of a canal irrigation project and proposed railway line. Located in Deschutes County, Redmond is on the western side of the High Desert Plateau and on the eastern edge of the Cascade mountain range. Redmond lies in the geographic heart of Oregon. Redmond focuses on its natural beauty, reveling in the outdoor recreational opportunities (camping, hiking, skiing) offered by the cascade mountain range, four seasons climate and 300+ days of sunshine annually.

Redmond has a population of approximately 26,800.  The city’s administration consists of an elected Mayor and City Council who appoint a City Manager. A number of Citizen Advisory Groups advise the city manager, mayor, and city council.[1] This strong connection between the city and resident can be seen in the city’s longstanding partnerships with schools through its policy of including youth liaisons on all city committees and commissions furthermore youth are encouraged to be active participants in the city planning process.[2] 

Redmond has been focused on innovative, sustainable growth and revitalization while preserving the city’s unique history and culture. In 1995 the City of Redmond began to make critical investments in revitalizing its downtown core. The initial phase of renovations strove strike the balance between growth, livability and historic preservation by rerouting Oregon State Highway 97, improving critical infrastructure as well as improving the facades of over 100 buildings in the historic center.[3] The City of Redmond has worked with local businesses to revitalize retail, job creation and housing. To facilitate private sector buy in Redmond offers innovative incentive programs such as the Façade Rehabilitation and Reimbursement Grant and “Downtown Jumpstart” loan competition as well as Design Assistance.[4]

Often referred to as “The Hub” of Central Oregon, Redmond is situated at the crossroads of US Highway 97 and US Highway 126; is served by the Burlington Northern Sante Fe Railway, Cascades East Transit Regional Public Transportation Service in addition to a state of the art regional airport served by multiple commercial airlines as well as FedEx and UPS. In addition to its geographic location, Redmond views itself as central to business growth in the region.  In 2014, Central Oregon Community College opened 34,300 square foot Technology Education Center to recruit businesses to and expand businesses in Central Oregon.[5][6]  

Redmond, Oregon Video

"Take a quick timelapse video tour of our high desert community; featuring just a few of the unique places and experiences to be enjoyed in and around the City of Redmond." http://www.redmond.or.us/

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Kristin Buxton
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