The City of Bend has moved forward with a major retail redevelopment on Business 97, north of the Olive Garden restaurant. Permits filed with the planning department show that the former Staples store will be extensively remodeled to become a new grocery outlet, a project that promises to expand affordable shopping options for Bend families.
Permit details outline a full‑scale transformation
The approved permits cover a comprehensive suite of construction and interior work. They include interior partition walls, finishes, painting, and trim work; new interior doors, frames, hardware, and signage; and the creation of office and break‑room casework. Accessible public and staff restrooms, complete with required fixtures and a drinking fountain, are also part of the plan.
Mechanical systems will be upgraded with a full HVAC installation, while plumbing upgrades will address sanitary waste, venting, domestic water supply, and gas lines. Lighting upgrades feature interior and emergency lighting, as well as dimming and occupancy controls. Electrical work will provide power and data to all fixtures and equipment through new conduits and sub‑panels.
Crucially for a grocery operation, the permits call for a complete refrigeration system, including reach‑in frozen food cases, refrigerated cases, cooler and freezer walk‑in boxes, a condenser rack, and a rooftop condensing unit. Retail shelving and display fixtures are also specified, indicating a ready‑to‑stock layout for the future store.
Potential Grocery Outlet tenant
A separate permit filing for the same address suggests that the building could become a new Grocery Outlet location. Grocery Outlet is known for offering discounted brand‑name groceries, a model that aligns with the needs of working families seeking value without sacrificing quality. The presence of such a retailer would add competition to the local market, potentially driving down prices and expanding choices for Bend shoppers.
Community impact and job creation
Local leaders have highlighted the importance of retail development that supports traditional families and strengthens the community’s economic base. A Grocery Outlet store typically creates a range of employment opportunities, from entry‑level positions to management roles, providing stable jobs for residents. Moreover, the renovation project itself will generate construction jobs in the short term, further stimulating the local economy.
City officials have emphasized that the project complies with all applicable building codes and accessibility standards, ensuring that the new store will be welcoming to all members of the community, including seniors and individuals with disabilities.
Owner’s response pending
KTVZ News reached out to the property’s owner for comment on the redevelopment plans. As of this writing, no response has been received. The city will continue to monitor the project’s progress and will keep residents informed of any significant updates.
What this means for Bend residents
For Bend’s growing population, the conversion of the former Staples site into a Grocery Outlet represents a tangible investment in local commerce. It aligns with the city’s broader goals of fostering a vibrant downtown corridor, supporting family‑friendly retail options, and creating jobs that uphold the values of hard work and personal liberty. Residents can look forward to a new shopping destination that promises both convenience and affordability.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
