13 empty storefronts

I was out for one of my pandemic therapy walks this winter and started to count all the vacant storefronts in downtown Clinton. As a volunteer for Discover Clinton, we are always trying to increase economic growth by promoting the great dining, shopping, arts, culture, and recreation. Discover Clinton went into survival support mode during the pandemic, but with spring coming, I was hoping for brighter things to come. 

And then you get the Downtown Clinton Revitalization Program. It felt like a one-two punch. Pandemic + Construction = Eek. The timing is tough. Construction is a huge inconvenience for businesses and residents. 

But I see downtown as a great economic driver. 

Foot traffic brings people. People bring money.

These businesses need the boost however way they can get. Plus, this spark has buildings facades being updated, new restaurants coming (The Vegans Nest!) and additional retail. I’ve even suggested putting up art in vacant storefronts so empty spots don’t look so sad.

Grows our commercial tax base

We need to continue to broaden our commercial tax base. We need to make Clinton an appealing place to do business for companies and their employees. When our commercial and industrial tax base grows, it can reduce residents’ burden and bring in more revenue. 

Build more pride in our town

With a new facelift, I hope more people spend time in Clinton. Thanks to a new grant, more restaurants will have new outdoor seating. Alfresco dining brings great energy to a location. People see others outside enjoying themselves and want to join in. 

Backdrop for fun events 

My kids always look forward to trick or treating downtown at the annual Halloween event. We see friends, hang out and there is something cool about shutting down the streets. (And don’t think we don’t notice the generosity of these local businesses giving out sweet treats.)

We also have Olde Home Days and Tribute Road Race. I’ve planned a lot of events in my professional (and personal) life. I think we should leverage this area to bring people into Clinton and bring the community together. 

Things will get a little worse before they get better. But when I stopped in for a smoothie at the Pressed’O and talked to them about their business, they said there are “Brighter days to come.” I agree.