South Bend, IN; Market & Development Analysis

Portage Market, South Bend, IN (image by Opticos)

Confronting the challenges of a changing urban landscape, our team reimagined the Portage Street Market—a 1960s neighborhood center struggling to remain relevant. Just north of downtown, the site needed a strategic transformation that would breathe new life into its 40,000 square foot space while maintaining affordability and community value.

Working alongside Opticos Design, Kellogg (as Urban Advisors) conducted a comprehensive market analysis that went beyond surface-level observations. By diving deep into local demographic data, we uncovered critical insights into market preferences and retail support. The result was a innovative, pragmatic approach to redevelopment that balanced economic feasibility with community needs.

Key recommendations included:

• Downsizing the primary grocery space from 40,000 to a more focused 12,000 square feet

• Introducing an ancillary hardware store to serve local residents

• Creating a vibrant market arcade by retrofitting remaining space for food service providers and artists

The proposed strategy transformed a potential liability into an opportunity, demonstrating how careful market analysis and creative thinking can revitalize urban spaces. By right-sizing the market and introducing a mix of flexible, affordable spaces, we created a model for adaptive urban development that could serve as a blueprint for similar neighborhoods facing economic transitions.