Lake Oswego, OR

The costal city of Lake Oswego has a population of about 36,000, establishing the community as the 14-largest community in the state of Oregon. Most of the total 11 square miles of this city is situated in Clackamas County.

Many accolades have been bestowed upon Lake Oswego over the years; most notable is the U.S. Conference of Mayors' Livability Award, which was presented to the city in 2006. The city is considered by many to be one of the finest places to live in the state of Oregon.

ECONOMY AND INDUSTRIES

The median household income in the city of Lake Oswego was estimated in 2007 to be $84,162. There's a number of industries in Lake Oswego, including professional, scientific and technical services, retail, manufacturing, healthcare, education, finance, wholesale, real estate and construction. Major area employers include:

• The Lake Oswego School District, which educates approximately 7,000 students.
• The City of Lake Oswego
• Gage Industries, Inc.
• Micro Systems Engineering, Inc.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Lake Oswego is projected to see a growth in the goods-producing industry. This growth will include expansion in the areas of manufacturing and construction.

NEIGHBORHOODS AND DISTRICTS

Many of the people residing in Lake Oswego are categorized as "urban sophisticates." These individuals are known for their wealth, education and professional careers. They are typically attributed with urbane tastes that include visiting bookstores, traveling and attending art exhibits, museums, operas, symphonies, ballets and the theater. The neighborhoods in Lake Oswego seem to appeal to many young, educated professionals. The area is primarily residential, but there are some commercial areas located throughout the city.

First Addition, the oldest neighborhood in Lake Oswego, reflects the styles and ingenuity of England with its English cottages and Tudor Revival homes. These homes were designed by Richard Sundeleaf, a noted architect in the city, between 1920 and 1940. Despite the popularity and impressive design of these homes, new styles accommodate the busy, more urban lifestyles of today's residents.

In total, Lake Oswego recognizes 20 neighborhood associations, in addition to 10 citizen advisory boards. The city is operated by a council-manager form of government, illustrated in the town's volunteer city council. This council consists of the mayor and six city council members, who serve four-year terms.

EDUCATION

More than 97 percent of the residents in Lake Oswego has attained their high school diplomas. Of the area residents, 62 percent holds a bachelor's degree or higher. About 5 percent of the residents is currently seeking college degrees.

The city is home to many schools and universities. Some of the key public schools are Bryant Elementary School, Forest Hills Elementary School, Hallinan Elementary School, Lake Oswego Junior High School, Waluga Junior High School, Lake Oswego High School and Lakeridge High School. These schools rank among the best in the nation.

The district also has a particularly high rate of students who go on to higher education: More than 90 percent of area students choose to go to college. Some of the colleges near or in Lake Oswego are Lewis and Clark College and Marylhurst University.

BEST BETS

More than 550 acres of parks and open space are maintained by the city. In addition to enjoying these outdoor areas, residents and visitors have at their disposal a number of additional recreational activities and opportunities:

• The Lake Oswego Farmers' Market offers fresh, seasonal produce, as well as artisan foods and musical entertainment. This market is open every Saturday from May to October.
• Luscher Farm, an historic farm owned by the city, gives lessons in urban farming and organic gardening and houses a great collection of clematis flowers.
• The Lake Oswego Hunt Club was established in 1936. Today, it offers a number of equestrian programs for children and adults and regularly scheduled polo matches and shows.
• For those who are interested, the city has an off-leash dog park, Luscher Park, that is open from dawn until dusk.
• Hiking trails, bike paths and horse trails are all found within the 645-acre, natural beauty of Tryon Creek State Park. There is also a nature center, which is stocked with information about the park and the classes and special events that take place there.
• Willamette Shore Trolley offers a six-mile rail ride that runs between Lake Oswego and nearby Portland. This line runs along the west bank of the Willamette River and features a number of highlights, including river landscapes and views and "Oregon's darkest tunnel."
• Shopping in Downtown Lake Oswego shouldn't be missed. The city is known for its fine shops, boutiques, restaurants, outdoor art and beautifully landscaped properties.
• The Lake Oswego Chamber of Commerce offers a walking-tour guide that includes information about the First Addition neighborhood.

LOCAL MEDIA

Lake Oswego offers a number of publications aimed at keeping the community up to date on local activities, news and events:

• Friday Letter is a weekly news publication.
• Hello LO is Lake Oswego's monthly community newsletter.
• The LODown is the city's weekly newsletter, similar to Hello LO.