Odd: Radiator twins

Eighth day of the May challenge is 'Odd.'

Twin radiator shops on NW Everett in the Pearl District.

When I moved to the Pacific Northwest 15 years ago, the Pearl District of Portland was little more than a gleam in the eyes of developers. It was a run-down warren of old factories, warehouses, auto repair shops, industrial services and the like, criss-crossed by railroad tracks. The developers paved over the tracks, leaving only a few bumpy cobblestone streets for atmosphere, and put up condos. Most of the original buildings have come down or been modified for residential or office use, but a few stalwarts remain, such as the two in this photo.

I frequently drive past these shops and find it strange to see the two of them side by side. How many radiator shops does a small city need? Are they competitors? Has one bought out the other and not bothered to change the signage? It's odd!

I suppose the mailman must know, but he was gone by the time I thought to ask him.