The closure of the Gateway Fred Meyer store has left East Portland residents reeling, as one of the community’s most relied-upon retailers shuts its doors for good. For decades, the store was more than just a grocery stop—it was a one-stop shop for food, household essentials, and prescriptions. Now, its absence highlights not just a local inconvenience but a deeper problem with retail stability in Portland’s neighborhoods.
Community Loss
Neighbors who depended on Fred Meyer for daily needs say they now face longer commutes and fewer choices. For seniors, families without cars, and those with limited mobility, the closure cuts off vital access to affordable groceries and medications. “It wasn’t just a store, it was part of our routine,” one resident said.
The loss also raises questions about how well Portland is serving its outer neighborhoods. Unlike downtown areas where multiple grocery stores cluster within walking distance, East Portland has fewer options. Residents fear the closure will deepen food insecurity and reduce walkable access to essentials.
A Setback for Redevelopment
The Fred Meyer shutdown also delivers a financial blow to the Gateway Tax Increment Finance (TIF) district, a project originally created to spark redevelopment in East Portland. The TIF was extended to generate nearly $60 million for revitalization projects, but with Fred Meyer gone, the math has changed dramatically.
According to the City of Portland, the Gateway store was expected to generate half of the projected rent for the property. Without it, plans for redevelopment—including new housing, retail, and community spaces—now face significant delays. Projects once touted as catalysts for Gateway’s growth are in limbo, leaving residents wondering when—or if—the promised investments will materialize.
Part of a Bigger Trend
While Portland feels the sting locally, the closure reflects a broader national trend. Across the country, big-box retailers are struggling to adapt to a rapidly shifting retail environment…