The single-story building with basement was the first Fred Meyer retail store built to the specifications of Fred G. Meyer himself after World War II. It was the first of three Meyer one-stop-shopping venues to feature rooftop parking, a concept he no doubt borrowed from the unsuccessful Portland Public Market that opened downtown during the Great Depression.
Empty racks and assorted retail debris still clutter the
former Fred Meyer/Rite Aid space. Several
other vacancies dot the Hollywood district as well. What once ranked as one of Portland’s busiest
neighborhood commercial centers is in apparent decline. One of the most notable vacancies is the old
Poor Richard’s steakhouse that enjoyed an ample parking lot. The Poor Richard’s site, just a couple blocks
from the former Fred Meyer store, has sat vacant now for several years.
Drive right up...but why? |
Oddly, perhaps, rooftop parking is still available at the old Hollywood Fred Meyer store. The monthly fee is $90, should you live in the neighborhood and need a place to park. It is also possible to walk up the ramp to get an interesting and rather close-up elevated view of the Hollywood Theatre's amazing terra cotta façade across Sandy Boulevard.
While the fate of contemporary retailing remains heavily in question, the Hollywood business district will remain a shadow of its former self until a successful enterprise reincarnates Fred Meyer's vision from long ago.
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