Starbucks takes shape in Madras

As walls take shape, the new Starbucks plans to open at the south Y intersection in Madras. The construction is scheduled to be completed in October, with opening shortly after.

“We hope that this will become the gateway to Madras and create a space for the community to meet and enjoy a great cup of coffee,” said developer Jake Ertle.

The parcel of land was originally purchased from the county in April 2021. Issues with planning and access issues from the Oregon Department of Transportation delayed the project, which started construction in May.

The over $2 million project will create a 2,460 square-foot Starbucks with indoor seating and drive-through. The lot was purchased for $260,000. Starbucks projects 150,000 customers a year at this location.

“Many residents over the years have asked why the city doesn’t have a stand-alone Starbucks or Dutch Bros.,” said Madras Community Development Director Nick Snead in an interview in January about the project. “This project responds to that desire and redevelops lands.”

Ertle has a long-standing relationship with Starbucks and has developed locations for the company before, including the Starbucks in Redmond with surrounding retail establishments.

The original proposal for this South Y Starbucks also included retail space. Ertle says that is no longer part of the plan. Ertle removed the vacant Grasslands Headquarters building at the property before starting construction.

Originally, the proposal called for Ertle to begin building within 18 months of the sale or the county could exercise the option to buy the property back. In August of 2022, the county amended the contract to give Ertle 30 months to begin construction. He began construction just before the deadline this year.