Mixed-use plan for Troutdale Discovery Block back in play

New owners revive concept for townhomes, retail space on downtown block

One of Troutdale's most recognizable remnants of the economic recession, the stalled downtown Discovery Block on the Historic Columbia River Highway, is getting a new lease on life.

Leveled right before the recession kicked in in 2008, the block front between Southeast Dora Street and Harlow Avenue was envisioned as a U-shaped hub for prosperity.

On one side would be an anchor tenant, perhaps a restaurant or pub, with a retail shop and room for offices on the other. Behind the commercial buildings, 10 townhomes would arise.

When the economy tanked, so did the plan.

In the wake of a new ownership deal finalized in 2013, activity has resumed on the block, which still contains the Troutdale Vision Clinic building, at 226 E. Historic Columbia River Highway, between two vacant lots.

Pat Hanlin, one of the property's four owners, said the group is awaiting permitting approval from the city before construction begins on five of the 10 planned townhomes.

Depending on how sales go, then we'll start the second five, hopefully on the heels of that, Hanlin said.

If permitting and readying the site go as planned, the townhomes will begin by this summer.

The city's been anticipating something going on for a long time, he said. Now we're just waiting. Then we're going to be off and running.

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Mixed-use plan for Troutdale Discovery Block back in play