Data center blocked, school closures loom, and weekend fun

Weather

Today in Salem: light drizzle. (H 72°F / L 58°F)

Local Headlines

Governor Kotek Blocks Salem Data Center Land Sale

Gov. Tina Kotek ordered Oregon to withdraw from selling 32 acres of state land at Mill Creek Corporate Center for a proposed data center. The decision comes amid community pushback over the project and concerns about transparency in the approval process.

Local Headlines

Up to Eight Elementary Schools Face Closure in 2027

Salem-Keizer will close up to eight elementary schools in the 2027-2028 school year due to declining enrollment. The district is grappling with capacity issues as student numbers continue to drop across the area.

Local Headlines

Emergency Merger Approved for Willamette Valley Hospitals

Oregon health leaders advanced an urgently needed merger of hospitals in the Willamette Valley. The emergency approval aims to stabilize healthcare services in our region.

Local Headlines

Salem Housing Authority Breaks Ground on Supportive Housing

The Housing Authority is preparing the city's first-of-its-kind apartment building with on-site support services. The innovative project aims to provide housing with wraparound care for vulnerable residents.

Local Headlines

Your Weekend Plans: Riverfront Music, Rooftop Yoga & Art Market

This week brings a riverfront music festival, rooftop yoga sessions, and a free art market to Salem. Plus, don't miss the Summer Block Party downtown on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Around Town

Saturday Block Party Brings Downtown to Life

Mark your calendars for this Saturday, August 1st! Downtown Salem comes alive with a free Summer Block Party from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. It's part of a packed weekend that also includes a riverfront music festival, rooftop yoga, and a free art market. Whether you're looking for family fun or just want to soak up the local scene, our neighborhoods are serving up plenty of reasons to get out and explore.