Multistory Development Planned for Downtown Eugene’s North Butterfly Lot

This article outlines Paradigm Properties’ plan to develop a new mixed-use, multistory building on Eugene’s north Butterfly lot. It details the proposed scale, public amenities, design approach, financing needs, and the timeline as the city weighs the project.

Project scope and timeline

The site at the north Butterfly lot—0.67 acres at Seventh Avenue and Oak Street in downtown Eugene—will host a multi-story, L-shaped building. It is envisioned to rise eight to 12 stories, capped to be no taller than The Graduate hotel.

The building will comprise roughly 30,000 square feet of floor area with 80 to 100 apartment units, including studios, and one- and two-bedroom layouts. Nearly all units are planned with private balconies to reinforce a residential focus in a dense, urban setting.

A distinctive feature on the ground floor will be a public promenade that wraps the building. This area will house storefronts, smaller retail or office spaces, and a multipurpose plaza.

The plaza will accommodate performances and provide a permanent office and vendor area for the Lane County Farmers Market. The project aims to connect the development with downtown life through these public spaces.

The design will blend contemporary and classic touches. Extensive glazing and high-quality siding will create a bright, inviting streetscape.

Architectural design and community spaces

The design supports a pedestrian-friendly environment with on-site bicycle storage on each floor and some underground parking. The inclusion of a public plaza and market-oriented spaces is intended to strengthen daily activity around the project.

The project will support local producers and merchants through these spaces. It aims to be a visually appealing addition to downtown Eugene that respects the scale and character of surrounding historic and retail corridors.

Economic strategy and policy context

Project costs have risen to about $60 million, up from an initial placeholder of $30 million. Paradigm notes the project could be feasible with 30–50% more funding and plans to request additional urban renewal dollars from the city.

To reduce overall costs, the developer will likely pursue the city’s Multi-Unit Property Tax Exemption (MUPTE) and Downtown Fee Assistance Program. These incentives are designed to spur density and revitalization in core urban areas.

Paradigm intends to offer market-rate rentals rather than condominiums. The rental pricing is expected to be below comparable downtown projects such as The Gordon Lofts, The Portal, and The Heartwood.

This approach aims to attract residents seeking a balance of amenities, location, and value.

Community engagement and timeline

City officials will release a public survey in May to gauge community input on the proposal. The Eugene City Council, acting as the urban renewal board, is slated to consider the project in June.

If approved, construction could begin in about 18 months, with an estimated build duration of 20–22 months. The project is targeting completion in 2029.

Neighbors have expressed general support for the plan but have asked for improved street design and calmer traffic on Sixth and Seventh avenues. The urban design must integrate traffic calming measures, street-level activity, and safe pedestrian routes.

Neighborhood impact and livability considerations

Ongoing dialogue with residents and street-level stakeholders will be essential as the project progresses. The goal is to ensure that public benefits—such as a vibrant ground-floor promenade and regular farmers market activity—translate into tangible improvements for daily life in downtown Eugene.

The balance of new housing, commerce, and public space is central to achieving a successful, long-term urban living environment.

Key takeaways for stakeholders

• Paradigm’s plan: 0.67-acre site, 8–12 stories, up to ~30,000 sq ft. The project includes 80–100 apartments with balconies, a public promenade, and space for a farmers market.
• Design emphasis: extensive glazing and high-quality siding. Bicycle storage will be available on every floor, with some underground parking included.
• Financing and incentives: cost escalation to ~$60 million. There is potential for 30–50% more funding, with pursuit of MUPTE and Downtown Fee Assistance.
• Housing strategy: market-rate rentals. Pricing will be below nearby downtown projects to improve accessibility.
• Timeline: city survey in May and council review in June. Ground-breaking is anticipated in ~18 months, with completion around 2029 and ongoing community review of traffic and streetscape improvements.

 
Here is the source article for this story: Details emerge for multistory building coming to downtown Eugene’s ‘North Butterfly’ lot