Future of Waterfront Park

[downtownpdx]

Let’s hope this one sticks. Glad to hear they’re planning renovations to make this happen. I’m vaguely remembering McCall’s as a place that didn’t really activate the area around it, so it’s nice to see they’re planning a grab and go outlet next to the fountain. If the Hawthorne Bowl redesign is successful this could really help activate the park around here.

[eric cantona]

RFQ dropped today.

[eric cantona]

https://www.portland.gov/business-opport...01241094-portland-waterfront-park-design

[downtownpdx]

Nice to see some reinvigoration of the waterfront starting to take place. The former Harborside is finally leased; the Portland Spirit is planning a new restaurant/takeout spot in the former Rose Fest headquarters building next to Salmon Springs Fountain; the Hawthorne Bowl is due for a possibly major facelift; and this will hopefully revitalize a 40 year old waterfront hotel:

https://www.bizjournals.com/portland/news/2026/07/22/amaterra-buys-riverplace-hotel.html

Amaterra buys Portland waterfront hotel, plans to spotlight location, wine and food

Portland-based Amaterra Hospitality Group revealed Wednesday it has purchased RiverPlace Hotel, a cornerstone of the Willamette River banks just south of the Hawthorne Bridge at 1510 S. Harbor Way. Amaterra owns the acclaimed Amaterra Winery in Portland and Amaterra Kitchen + Social Club in Bend, which it opened in spring 2025.
…
The hotel is also close to riverfront trails, parks and downtown Portland. The RiverPlace Kitchen and Bar specializes in regional seafood and other locally sourced dishes.
Amaterra Winery in Portland's West Hills early last year was voted the region's second favorite restaurant in the Business Journal's most popular restaurants survey, which considers any restaurant opened in the previous three years as new. It was No. 1 on the list in 2024.
Amaterra is owned by Portlanders Colleen Nistler, Werner Nistler Jr. and Marcus Breuer. The trio is "centered on restoring vitality and energy to Portland’s waterfront while preserving the authentic character that has made RiverPlace a favorite among visitors and locals alike."

(continues/paywall)