PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN) — Since the 1960s, a Fred Meyer store has been a staple for people in the area of SE 82nd and Foster. But company officials said the store is not doing as well as expected and it will close Saturday night.
For weeks, the store has had a closing sale going and the shelves are nearly empty. The nearest Fred Meyer is about 2 miles away at Johnson Creek and 82nd.
Some customers said it will be hardship for those who walk to the store from south of Foster. But one big question is what will become of the 94,000 square foot property. Neighbors are concerned that transients may make their way in while the building sits vacant.
One person told KOIN 6 News, “Someone here told me it was going to be a 100-bed homeless shelter. I don’t know. I think that would be a mistake.”
Mayor Ted Wheeler’s office told KOIN 6 News there are no plans for a homeless shelter at this location. Prosper Portland, the city development group, also said Fred Meyer owns the building and is not aware of their plans for selling the property and the building.
Local spokespeople for Fred Meyer did not respond to requests for comment from KOIN 6 News.
Company officials already installed a perimeter fence around the property, which sits in a high traffic area. Plenty of eyes will watch what happens.
