Explore Polk County 2021

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Welcome to Independence ATTITUDE MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE The city began reinventing itself in the early 2000s, trying to turn what many saw as a rough-around-theedges burg into something special. 20  Explore Polk County 2021

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here’s a lot of activity in downtown Independence. The city began reinventing itself in the early 2000s, trying to turn what many saw as a rough-around-the-edges burg into something special. It worked. Stroll down Main Street on a summer weekend, and you’ll see why this former river port is increasingly a draw for people in the Willamette Valley who want to get away without traveling too far. Most of the fun begins with Riverview Park, the town’s “living room.” The amphitheater, built in 2006, is packed with people for free movies and concerts all summer. On the Fourth of July, people pour into the park for arguably the best view of fireworks to be found

in the valley. The 75-room boutique hotel on the Willamette River, The Independence, is welcoming visitors. Its design embraces the river, The Independence Amphitheater and Riverview Park, the walkable downtown and nearby wineries. New businesses are filling vacant storefronts and new apartments are in the works. What’s bringing all this growth to Independence? “I think a lot of it is the broader community attitude,” said Shawn Irvine, economic development director. “We’ve developed a reputation that we’re going to take control of our own future. We’re the ones responsible for See PAGE 22

A Special Publication of the Polk County Itemizer-Observer


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