There are fewer vacant buildings downtown on Halstead’s Main Street than there were this time a year ago. The city saw a burst of business growth in 2019 with half a dozen new businesses starting up.
Local businessman Cory Harrington was a big part encouraging that growth by working with building owners to negotiate affordable lease rates. Thanks to Harrington’s efforts, Fiesta Mexico Grill came to 221 Main, Henry’s Chase came to 261 Main, and The Twisted Cow and A Marie Studios came to share 230 Main. These represent three buildings that were vacant at the start of the year that now are filled.
Harrington also kept spaces filled at the shared 309 Main building. When the Tortoise Gallery relocated from 309 to 224 in January, Mom Cave Designs quickly filled its old spot. An office at the rear of 309 was filled by SJ Beauty Bar in October after the previous tenant left.
(Read more: Harvey County Now)