Two Virginia-based burger chains are interested in opening locations in Downtown Portland, but are facing opposition from city residents and officials.
Having more fast-food stores open in the Downtown area may be a mixed bag, having both benefits and downfalls. Stacy Mitchell, a Portland-based researcher, believes the city of Portland derives its strength from the independent businesses it has, and that opening larger chain-stores could jeopardize Portland's unique character. Tim Soley, the building manager of the proposed location for the burger chain, believes that the Downtown area will see more foot traffic as a result of the additions, which will boost other businesses in the area as well.
"'If Portland ends up with a mix of chains downtown like what you find at the mall, why would you go to the trouble of coming downtown?' [Mitchell] said."
FULL STORY: Food-service transitions: Chain restaurants on the way in
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Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
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Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Appalachian Highlands Housing Partners
Gallatin County Department of Planning & Community Development
Heyer Gruel & Associates PA
Mpact (founded as Rail~Volution)
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
City of Portland
City of Laramie