On January 31st, Cascade Athletic Clubs will close their Montavilla location at 9260 SE Stark Street. After nearly 36 years in this prominent storefront near Mall 205, the multi-location fitness company has opted not to renew its lease. Existing customers can transition to the Gresham location starting in February.

Cascade’s Portland location opened on Stark Street in August 1987, just ten years after the original Gresham facility began serving the health-conscious community. Scott Dobson, manager of the Montavilla location, said his facility is the only fully leased gym within the organization. The family-owned fitness company bought the Gresham property in 1977 and is part owner of their Vancouver, WA, facility. Consequentially, closing the Portland location is the most sensible place to cut back costs after a challenging few years. “The Pandemic closed our doors twice for months, and we never recovered, ” explained Dobson. Closing this location allows the company to refocus on the other two sites. Dobson and many of his staff will relocate to one of the other locations. However, it will be quite an adjustment for the team after many years of working in the neighborhood. “I have loved the 34 years working in Montavilla. I am doing my best to run a great club until February 1st, help my staff transition to other locations, and help give my membership the information they need to choose a new club.” Said Dobson.

This change will also complicate operations for Cascade 205 Physical Therapy, an embedded business that uses Cascade Athletic Clubs’ equipment as part of its rehabilitation program. John McAllister, Clinic Director at Cascade 205 Physical Therapy, said they intend to remain at that location but are still working on details. “At this point, we are planning to stay in the building to continue to serve patients in the neighborhood. We are working to have a full assortment of exercise equipment in our space. If we are not able to stay in this location long term with a new anchor business, we will move very nearby to continue to serve patients in Montavilla and inner SE Portland.” Said McAllister.

Scott Dobson acknowledges this is disappointing news for its members, some of whom have decades of experience going to this gym. “It is definitely sad, but I am concentrating on finishing December and January strong and taking care of our members and staff.” The Montavilla location will remain in operation for another month. They are open Monday through Thursday from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday from 5 a.m. to 9 p.m., and 7 a.m. through 8 p.m. on weekends.

Update February 4th, 2023: Cascade Athletic Clubs’ 9260 SE Stark Street location is boarded up awaiting a new tenant. Interested groups should contact Hanna Realty at 503-774-8893 or info@HannaNetwork.com

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