Portland OKs $9.3M Tenant Upgrade, Major Projects

Building Permits Issued (Jan. 27 - Feb. 2, 2025)

Portland continues to see substantial development activity, with major permits issued for tenant improvements, new construction, and facility upgrades across the city.

A $9.34 million alteration permit was granted for 1211 S.W. Fifth Ave., paving the way for a multi-floor tenant improvement project for Schwabe, Williamson & Wyatt. The work includes demolishing and reconstructing walls across floors 16-19 to create office spaces, conference rooms, break rooms, and wellness areas. The project, led by Clare Goddard of Ankrom Moisan, will involve structural updates, new handrails on connecting stairs, and extensive remodeling of lobbies and restrooms.

Another significant permit was issued for 7000 N. Cutter Circle, with a $5.15 million budget for a full-scale remodel of a 24,000-square-foot office building. The redesign will include new open and enclosed offices, meeting rooms, a large multipurpose space, break areas, restrooms, and exterior upgrades such as a new storefront and an outdoor patio with a gas firepit.

Among other large-scale projects:

• A $2.9 million alteration at 10800 S.E. Washington St., which includes roof repairs, a secure entry, and a new mechanical enclosure.
• A $2.2 million renovation at 2921 S.E. 116th Ave., featuring exterior updates, siding installation, a new walk-in cooler and freezer, and restroom additions.

Facility Upgrades & Healthcare InvestmentsPortland’s healthcare infrastructure also saw major investment this week. A $1.14 million permit was approved for Providence Portland Medical Center at 4805 N.E. Glisan St., where a PET/CT scan room and patient facilities will be revamped.Meanwhile, at OHSU’s Kohler Pavilion (808 S.W. Campus Drive), a $610,407 permit was granted for fourth-floor tenant improvements, including structural upgrades to accommodate new medical equipment.New Construction & Future DevelopmentsLooking ahead, Portland is also preparing for fresh developments, including:

• A $1.62 million three-story, 20-unit apartment building at 3745 S.E. Division St.
• A $1.4 million pre-engineered metal commercial building at 7813 S.E. Luther Road

Industry Reactions & Developer InsightsWith construction costs remaining a key concern, developers are closely monitoring material pricing and market conditions. “Portland’s construction industry is still seeing strong demand, but with ongoing material cost fluctuations, careful planning is critical,” said a local developer.As Portland continues its trajectory of growth, these new projects underscore the city’s commitment to expanding commercial, residential, and institutional infrastructure.