DAS Notice Submitted!

The DBCC submitted our proposal/request to DAS on March 19th.  We understand it is to be considered and we will be presenting at the PLAC at the upcoming meeting on April 23 at 1:30PM.  

The Dome Building Community Coalition (DBCC) has officially submitted its Notice of Interest to the State of Oregon through the Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Clearinghouse process. This marks an important step in what has been a long and thoughtful effort to preserve and activate one of Salem’s most recognizable historic buildings for community use.

What is the Clearinghouse Process?
Before the state can sell or dispose of surplus property on the open market, Oregon law requires a 30-day “Clearinghouse” period. During this time, public entities, tribes, and qualified nonprofit housing developers have the opportunity to express interest in acquiring the property—particularly for uses that serve a public benefit.
DBCC submitted its interest within this window as a nonprofit organization aligned with that purpose.

Why the Dome Building?
For us, this project is about more than a building.  The Dome Building represents a rare opportunity to create something Salem does not currently have: a centralized, community-driven space that brings together youth programming, nonprofit collaboration, and accessible services under one roof.  Our proposal focuses on three core outcomes:

• Preservation of the historic structure for long-term public use
• Activation of the space as a hub for education, nonprofits, and community programming
• Housing for youth and young adults, as well as seniors, aligned with state affordability requirements

We believe these goals reflect both the intent of the Clearinghouse process and the broader needs of the community.

A Practical Path Forward
One of the key challenges with the Dome Building is the cost of redevelopment. Estimates for full renovation exceed $13 million, with seismic upgrades alone approaching $5 million.

Rather than waiting for a fully funded, large-scale redevelopment that may never materialize, our approach is different.

We are proposing a phased activation model—using existing infrastructure to bring the building into immediate, responsible use, while pursuing long-term capital improvements through grants, partnerships, and historic preservation funding.
​This allows the building to begin serving the community sooner, while building momentum for future investment.

What Happens Next?
Following the 30-day Clearinghouse period, the state will determine next steps. If a qualifying entity is selected, negotiations may begin. If not, the property may move to a broader public process.  We understand that this is just one step in a larger process, but it is a meaningful one.

Moving Forward
We are encouraged by the level of community interest and support that has already emerged around this project. Local leaders, organizations, and residents have consistently expressed a desire to see the Dome Building preserved and put back into use in a way that benefits Salem.

That is exactly what we are working toward.

We will continue to keep the community informed as the process moves forward.

In the meantime, we remain focused on building partnerships, refining the plan, and doing the work necessary to make this vision a reality.