Downtown Salem is getting an important upgrade. Starting today, April 6, the City of Salem is breaking ground on The Marion Parking Structure Revitalization project at 538 Liberty Street NE. The goal is to create a space that feels safer, brighter, and more welcoming for everyone who lives, works, shops, and spends time downtown.
This project, made possible by Riverfront Downtown Urban Renewal funds, represents a major investment in the future of downtown Salem. With improvements focused on visibility, accessibility, and comfort, the revitalized structure is designed to better serve residents, visitors, and the local businesses that help keep the heart of the city moving.
Safety Through Transparency
A major focus of this revitalization project is improving visibility and making the structure feel more open. One of the most noticeable changes will be the removal of the solid walls on the ground floor, which will be replaced with perforated metal panels. These panels are designed to screen parked vehicles while still allowing in more light and clearer sightlines.
Additional upgrades planned as part of the project include:
- Open stairwells: Existing stairs will be replaced, and surrounding walls will be removed so people can more easily see who is entering and exiting.
- Weather protection: Staircase entrances will be covered by new roof structures to provide shelter from the elements and make entry/exit points easier to find.
- Upgraded nighttime lighting: Exterior lighting improvements will help increase visibility after dark, making downtown visits feel more comfortable during evening dining, shopping, and events.
Together, these changes are intended to create a parking structure that feels more user-friendly and inviting for the community.
Keeping Downtown Moving During Construction
Construction projects can be disruptive, especially in the core of downtown, but the City of Salem is planning this one in phases to help keep things accessible. Rather than closing the structure all at once, work will take place one corner at a time so that much of The Marion can remain open throughout the project.
Here are a few important things for downtown visitors to know:
- The skybridge to Salem Center Mall will remain open.
- Visitor, permit, and ADA-accessible parking will still be available, although locations may shift during different phases of construction.
- Temporary signs and directional updates will help guide drivers and pedestrians as the work progresses.
- Some road-related work will happen overnight to help reduce congestion during daytime hours.
This phased approach is meant to support continued access to downtown businesses, restaurants, and retail while the improvements are underway.
Investing in Salem’s Growth
The Marion Parking Structure revitalization is expected to be completed in November 2026. Beyond the physical upgrades, this project reflects a broader investment in downtown Salem and the experience of the people who spend time there.
As Salem continues to grow and evolve, improvements like these can help support a downtown that feels more welcoming, functional, and connected. For local businesses, visitors, and residents alike, that is good news for the future of the city center.