Wanted: a vision for Salem’s vacant north downtown block

Salem leaders hope a vacant block downtown will become a catalyst for developing the north side of the city’s core.

City leaders are asking developers for proposals to build on the lot they’re calling “Block 50,” which once housed the old Union Gospel Mission men’s shelter, Saffron Supply Co. and several smaller businesses.

The city vision for the block is a development that combines affordable and market-rate housing with retail and other commercial use, including…