Columbia Sportswear’s downtown flagship store is re-opening after a three-month closure for major remodeling.

“We are excited to offer Portland shoppers and area visitors a newly redesigned retail location that better reflects the evolution of the Columbia Sportswear brand, provides access to more of our products than anywhere else and offers an unrivaled outdoor shopping experience,” said Kerry Barnes, vice president of retail.

In addition, Mountain Hardwear Inc., is opening its first retail store on April 11th.

“The store will allow consumers to see the full extent of our product in an environment that represents our brand from entrance to check out,” said Mike Wallenfels, president of Mountain Hardwear and Montrail.

Since 2007, downtown Portland has experienced a significant investment by both local and national retailers, totaling nearly $193 million. This investment is also supported by the new $208 million transit mall and light rail project.

“Downtown Portland keeps getting better and better thanks to smart planning by our elected officials and ongoing efforts to recruit and retain local and national retailers,” said Sandra McDonough, President and CEO of the Portland Business Alliance. “It is our goal that this trend will continue as more retailers and restaurateurs look to downtown Portland as the market they need to be in.”

Columbia Sportswear will mark its grand re-opening with weekend festivities including a $500 shopping sprees and an appearance by NASCAR star Geoff Bodine.

Also as part of its grand reopening, Columbia Sportswear plans to donate 10 percent of all sales made between April 11 and 30 to Start Making A Reader Today also known as “SMART.”