Homeport has helped develop or rehab 62 homes in the King Lincoln District, but now they are setting their sights on bolstering retail attractions. A new economic development program will take initiatives to bring more retail to Long Street and surrounding vacant areas.
“Economic development is just as important as housing,” says Homeport Development Coordinator, Josh Lapp. “How can we bring more business to the neighborhood?”
Lapp sees many reasons why this area would be a great spot for businesses. Development of bordering areas like Downtown and Olde Towne East has brought momentum to the neighborhood. Proximity to schools like CCAD and Columbus State, along with venues like the Lincoln Theater and events like Jazz in the Park mean lots of activity in the area. Construction at the I70/71 split that has restricted access to the the neighborhood will also soon be resolved.
Homeport’s first effort to bring more attractions to the area was finding Los Potosinos food truck a place to set up shop in a previously vacant lot at the corner of Long and Garfield. Now, they are looking replicate this success up and down Long Street.
Homeport is working with property owners in the area to lower entry barriers for businesses. Some are willing to do free or reduced rent to see the spaces filled. Lapp says the biggest draw to exploring these options is flexibility. Property managers will work with businesses owners to figure out leases lengths, including short-term options, to make sure both parties are satisfied. Owners of three to four spaces have show great interest with the potential for more.
Businesses of all sorts are welcome to the spaces – established, new or those looking at expanding to another location.
For more information about retail space on Long Street, contact Beth Neville, [email protected], or call (614) 545-4834.
To learn more about Homeport, visit homeportohio.org.
Photo via Homeport.
