New retail spot ‘Pioneer Marketplace’ gauges interest near downtown Bend

Just south of new hotel under construction at Wall Street, Olney Avenue

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Expansion: A word commonly used when talking about the city of Bend.

The northeast corner of Wall Street and Olney Avenue at the north end of downtown continues that growth, with what's being called the Pioneer Marketplace.

The 112-room Element by Westin extended-stay hotel on the site of the former Bulletin building is now slated for completion this fall after delays due to COVID-19.

Compass Commercial Real Estate tells us there are two site options that will most likely be used as retail/restaurant locations.

The first option allows for two 3,000-square-foot buildings, which could include restaurants.

The second would be to fit one 4,000-square-foot building with a drive-thru.

Bend residents like Natalie Zwonitzer, who lives nearby, hopes the local guys get a chance.

"I hope we support our local farmers and create another experience for someone who wants to come to Bend," Zwonitzer said. "They can experience what our city really is, and not see us as just a corporate eatery."

In the economic downturn of COVID-19, it can be an uphill battle for local business owners looking to expand.

But Jay Lyons, the president of Compass Commercial Real Estate in Bend, said Thursday it's entirely possible for a local business to lease the property. He said downtown Bend continues to have a great blend of national and local tenants.

"Despite national chains having more financial power, they have more requirements and typically make landlords jump through more hoops," said Lyons. "Local tenants have the ability to be more flexible."

Ron Ross, Compass's principal broker for the space, told us what they're looking for.

"We want to see who we get interest from and then we'll develop the site around that," Ross said. "We would love to have a national retailer, but we're from very open to the locals."

The future of the site will all depend on the interest level. Ron said he hopes for this site to be an extension of downtown.

One thing is for sure: Bend continues to grow.