by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Potential downtown retailers soon will have a better idea of what spaces are available and how to get their hands on.
Downtown Vision, Inc. has spoken with building managers and downtown property owners since February. They should have a comprehensive and instantly updated retail market guide — photos included — on their website before the end of the month. Early data was posted Friday.
“It really serves two functions,” said DVI business development manager Amy Crockett. “One, it lets us know how much retail space is down here. Once we have that information, we’ll be able to find out how much is vacant and available for lease.”
Though still awaiting final tallies, Crockett estimated there is a million square feet of downtown retail space.
“There are a few management companies who have information about office space downtown,” she said, “but until now, no one has had any information about the retail options. When we’re finished we’ll even be able to list who’s inside of each building.
“But instead of listing a vacant floor in an office building, this guide will help the person who wants to open a bookstore or a restaurant, particularly at street level.”
Crockett said information about nearly every downtown retail option has been collected with the exception of the Landing and properties in the Bay Street Town Center project.
“Those are really the only two major retail groups left,” she said. “And we hope to have that information very soon. Just about every management company has been very agreeable and helpful in getting this kind of information to us.
“It really works for everyone involved because, in addition to providing valuable information, it allows the realtors to better promote their available properties.
Crockett said interest from individuals hoping to open temporarily during the Super Bowl provided a timely impetus for the project.
“We do want to primarily focus on stimulating business downtown, even after the Super Bowl,” said Crockett, “but now we do have that kind of information. We think the Host Committee will find it useful and we’ve agreed to pass that along to them.”
Host Committee spokesperson Heather Surface said any useful data will be utilized.
“It’s obviously going to be very valuable if we can use it to connect potential vendors with the property that’s available to them,” she said. “We look forward to making that happen.”