Visions for Vacancies: Portage Crossing Sparks New Interest in Old Ponderosa

If all goes to plan, a well-known restaurant chain could soon take over the defunct Ponderosa on State Road.

According to a representative from MLE Enterprises, which owns the property, the prospective franchise may close the deal by as early as next month.

“We’ve had, well, quite a few restaurants interested in the space, and it’s just been a matter of choosing the best fit for the neighborhood,” said the rep who asked not to be named since the deal isn’t finalized.

Why all the interest in the old Ponderosa?

Now that has the green light, property surrounding the incoming development has become a hot commodity.

“Think of it as a chain reaction or a domino effect, especially given the announcement that has signed on to Portage Crossing,” said the MLE source.

Groundbreaking for Portage Crossing was slated for late June, but due to a deal restructuring, the new date has not yet been announced, according to the city's development director, Sue Truby.

The announcement on which popular franchise restaurant will take over Ponderosa may come by early August.

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Which franchise restaurant should MLE Enterprises choose? Tell us in the Comments!