Look to cities that have similar weather and demographics as Eugene for ones that have succeeded in their downtown areas. Corvallis, McMinnville, both are college towns with beautifully maintained downtown areas with shops, entertainment, restraunts, and very pleasant atmospheres. Benches, flowers, appealing things to look at and do. Clean, easily walkable, family friendly. I sincerely hope that Eugene is able to make downtown a vibrant and safe area.