[monkeybars]

Hello Eugenians. My DH, toddler daughter and I are trying to decide if we are going to relocate to Corvallis or Eugene. I've been doing a lot of research online, but I have a few questions about the neighborhoods in Eugene. We will be visiting both cities in a few days, so any input is greatfully appreciated.

It is easy to see South Eugene, and it's schools are great and very desirable. There are 3 others I'd Like to know a little about: 1) Ferry Street Bridge and North Gilham 2) Santa Clara and 3) River Road. Is there much difference in these neighborhoods? What is the feel of each one (family oriented, safety, community, look)? We would actually prefer to buy a newer home as we are not handy at all, but we don't want to live in a completely bland suburban environment. How about the schools? The Oregon State website lists South Eugene as exceptional, Sheldon as strong and North Eugene, Churchill and Williamette as just ok (I'm using high schools as a guide to narrow down since there are fewer). Other parent websites had parents praising the ok schools, so I can't tell if they are good or really mediocre.

We are so excited to make this trip, and thanks in advance for any help!

 

[monkeybars]

*pokes head in, looks like it's all clear*

....................:streaks giddily:.....................

 

[monkeybars]

Thanks for your thoughtful reply, it answers a lot of my questions. I am from LA, my husband is British, and we are fed up with big city life. We want to be some place beautiful, safe, liberal and community oriented. We prefer the cooler weather and I think we can deal with the rain. The thought of another hot summer here makes me crazy. I actually started a Corvallis thread a few weeks back, and got a lot of good info on the area too.

From everything I've read, I think South Eugene is right up our alley. The only things is, we are not handy people and after some scary experiences as first time home owners in an old house, we are ready for something newer. It seems like the south is mostly older homes (which are lovely), though I know there are exceptions. Right now we live in a hilly area, and we love hiking and the woods. I guess our ideal would be an eclectic neighborhood of old and new homes, where people know each other and care about maintaining their community.

As far as schools, all of your schools are far better than here. We want to send our daughter to public school, or at least live in an area where we can. We are open to different philosophies, but I do want a certain amount of academics (call me crazy, but I loved school and the classics). Our biggest goal for her is to have a passion for learning and to remain curious. I used to be a kid's art teacher and recently I have been doing a preschool co-op with her, so I'd really like to be involved in her education too.

Crime is another concern - do a lot of people use alarm companies for their homes? Take their chances? Is it more car theft?

Thanks again!