Commercial center planned for Clatskanie

Published 4:00 pm Thursday, January 31, 2008

The first phase of construction of a $2.5 million commercial complex in Clatskanie could begin in late winter, according to the project’s developer.

Eric Dahlgren, managing partner of Clatskanie River Development LLC, said the two-building Clatskanie Centre will be constructed on a two-acre parcel located off U.S. Highway 30 between the Clatskanie River Inn and NAPA Quality Auto Parts.

The initial phase calls for a single-story, 12,000 square foot building that will serve five tenants. The second building, also one story, will be 13,500 square feet and serve two tenants, as currently planned.

The buildings will be constructed of masonry, but will include such design elements as logs and shakes to complement the theme of the Clatskanie River Inn, which also is owned by Clatskanie River Development, and create a “village” appearance, Dahlgren said. Both buildings will incorporate the latest in energy-saving materials and devices, he added.

Dahlgren said he is awaiting final permits for the project. Construction on the first phase could begin in late winter or early spring with completion in five months.

At present, plans call for completion of the first building before the second phase starts.

“But we may do both at the same time, depending on interest from prospective tenants,” he told Coast River Business Journal. “We’ve pretty well locked down tenants for (phase one).” He declined to identify any of the potential tenants.

With its easy access to U.S. Highway 30, the Class “A” commercial complex is expected to attract an assortment of businesses, including retail and professional services, and a restaurant.

Contractor for the project is Seven Oaks Development of St. Helens.