NEIGHBORHOOD SYNOPSIS

Empire Lakes

The Empire Lakes neighborhood encompasses a residential area (to the north and south), the local community college campus (on the east side), and a large park with three lakes (in the center). The neighborhood is bordered on the north by the bay, the west by Schoneman and Taylor Streets, the south by Newmark Avenue, and the east by Fir Street alongside the park, and Crocker Street north of the park. The college (Southwestern Oregon Community College) was established in 1959, and is the oldest community college in the State of Oregon. A majority of the present day campus was built from 1965 to 1969, and also includes on its grounds the Oregon Coast Culinary Institute. Besides offering general academic courses, the college is known for its Nursing and Arts programs; and, with its active recruitment efforts, attracts more than 14,000 students each year.

By far the largest attraction to this neighborhood is John Topits Park (more popularly known as Empire Lakes Park). It is named after a local man who, while serving on the City Council, convinced the city not to develop the area immediately around the lakes for residential purposes. Largely through his friends, family, and volunteers, he was able to establish a recreational area that provides for several relaxing activities. There is a playground for children, over 5 miles of mostly paved walking trails, and swimming, canoeing and fishing (bass, bluegill, perch, and catfish) in the lakes. There are five different entry points to the park, and residential neighbors on the borders of the park, enjoy the easy access.

In February 2011, the homes for sale in this neighborhood ranged in price from $135,000 to $559,000, most of which were below $200,000. The homes sold in the neighborhood 6 months prior to this period were primarily less than 1400 square feet and under $150,000. The average sale price was $147,983. The homes in this area were primarily built in the 1970s and 1980s in the ranch style. However, some homes bordering the north side of the park date back to the 1950s. There are also small pockets of newer construction built in the last 15 years, and a few newer manufactured homes, as well. A handful of homes to the north have a bay view.