Auburn’s historic business districts have been ‘Tan Land.’ That could change
Downtown and Old Town Auburn could get a refresh after the City Council approved an ordinance establishing a new paint color collections for use within the Historic Design Review District.
City staff recommended that the Historic Design Review Commission ask the City Council to adopt an ordinance that expanded the paint color collections for use within the Historic Design Review District.
The previous color palette included 65 colors. Following Tuesday’s vote, business owners can now choose from 191 colors.
The new options include shades of tan, gold, brown, pink, green and blue.
Jonathan Wright, the city’s economic development director, said he worked with downtown revitalization consultant Michelle Reeves in 2024 to identify opportunities to enhance the city’s historic commercial districts and increase foot traffic.
Reeves told city officials that the visual appeal of storefronts is holding Old Town and downtown back.
She observed the prevalence of neutral-toned building facades, referring to Auburn as “Tan Land,” and encouraged property and business owners to embrace color.
Reeves said elements such as paint and awnings are relatively low-cost, temporary treatments that can make a meaningful visual impact while allowing flexibility over time, according to city officials.
In a presentation about the ordinance, Wright said the Community Development Department has limited capacity to review routine paint and awning material changes, which strains resources.
Kat Eich, president of Auburn’s Old Town Business Association, said the ordinance regarding paint and awnings will benefit the city.
“Specifically, it will aid in the beautification of our historic district, particularly for buildings that have remained vacant or neglected,” she said. “While Auburn has traditionally maintained very strict standards and a lengthy approval process, this streamlining will make it much easier for business and building owners to stay current with their upkeep.”
