Vacant Stores

Taking a ride during lunch today, I looked at some vacant storefronts and wondered to myself, why they are empty now and more importantly, what- if anything- could fill these places up?

I'll mention a few: first one that come to mind was the old Netherland Office Supplies Store on Main Street. This is a fairly large building, that would seem to have some use left in it. The biggest drawback, as it is with most businesses in that area, is a lack of parking. So whatever moves into that space, would have to be something that didn't need to have a lot of foot traffic. The interior is large enough that it could be split up between multiple businesses. It has lots of window frontage too. It could make a good office complex, I suppose??

Right down the street is the old Days Jewelry Story, most recently, Boyetts Flooring. This building has a decent third floor area where dance classes used to be held. It is my understanding that it needs interior renovations- but it offers a wonderful opportunity to the business with a creative mind.

Across the street on the corner of Mechanic Street, Polaris Cable TV has moved from their corner store. This is another store with decent floor space and being on a corner, you have some side parking available. Also in the same building, REMAX has moved to a new location and their store is vacant as well.

The major drawback with these stores, as with this entire block, is the residents of the upstair apartments. They tend to congragate on the sidewalks frequently. Since the present owner has bought the building, he has "cleaned out" a lot of the less desirable tenants, but the area in general still has a reputation that is hard to overcome - But, I feel the right business could indeed be successful there.

At the head of the Square, MC Wireless recently closed down and the store is for rent. one of the most visible store fronts in Houlton, with ok parking and a parking lot right next door, this is a prime spot for someone and should not remain empty for long.

Heading up North Street, the one place that jusmps right out at you is the old Brake Service building. This is a brick building with tons of potential

I could go on, but I won't. The hope here is that the Economy picks up enough, to encourage someone to try and make a go out of these locations. In the end, we all benefit.

That's the view from my couch tonight.