Alert “06880” reader Sharon Fiarman has noticed a slew of empty storefronts — and a ton of construction — on Main Street.
She wondered what was going on. It’s a great question.
I asked Westport Downtown Merchants Association president Randy Herbertson. He says:
Major flood-proofing is going on in these spaces, which is why they are so ripped up.
It is a significant expense (which the old Chico’s space already went through), but necessary in these times of climate change.
(Photo/Sharon Fiarman)
We have some great new stores going in — a profile that makes sense for downtown Westport (versus the new Norwalk mall.)
Lululemon is expanding into the old Nike space, which will now include more experiential activities.
Johnny Waas, a clothing store, is going into the old Allen Edmonds, while Sundance (Robert Redford’s brand; only 16 stores nationwide) will be in the old Ann Taylor.
Also, at the far end (the old Talbots Kids) will be a new breakfast/lunch restaurant, with a beautiful outdoor patio facing the river.
And further up, Belden Place (the old Nappa space), which is almost done, has signed a specialty exercise tenant for their front space.
More to come soon!