Eleven new businesses opened in the past year, according to the Grand Avenue Business Association.
A very intriguing read, even if from Pioneer.
The vacancies along Grand Avenue are “not a sign that the avenue isn’t working,” Crowell said. “It is a sign that [STRS Ohio] isn’t working with the avenue.”
The six recommended actions called for:
Improving the pedestrian experience
Focusing on accessibility and parking
Protecting the livelihoods of small businesses by slowing taxes and other costs
Planning for future density, open space, residential and commercial areas
Convening local leaders to generate new sources of revenue for investment in infrastructure
Developing solutions for vacant storefronts through short-term tax relief or other means.
Grand avenue is perfect for having sections as a pedestrian only boulevard especially near the new apartment / storefront areas. Start with a few weeks in the summer or around Christmas to try it out. There are wonderful small local businesses close together as well as restaurants. That's what's needed.