If you know Portland, you know that what is now called the Pearl District used to be an urban blight. It was a graveyard of old warehouses, vacant storefronts and overgrown lots.

What a difference a couple of years and can make. These days it’s a happening neighborhood with some of the city’s best stores and restaurants. Every once in awhile you get a glimpse of how it happened to work out that way.

The NeighborhoodNotes blog mentioned that the Centennial Mill, a century-old former flour mill and longtime waste of space, was destined for the wrecking ball. But here’s what I love about Portland: Apparently, the 12 buildings are going to be converted into a complex of restaurants, shops, entertainment and green space. Bravo, Portland.

So keep an eye on this spot along the Willamette on the northern edge of the Pearl.

Cheerio,
Emily