Empty retail space on St. Nicholas/Photo by D. Bell
While walking around Harlem, I can’t help but to notice the number of empty storefronts. Some of these spaces are the retail space of newer developments like the Langston (rumors of a Gap or similar retailer were swirling around for a while) and other spaces are small businesses that have gone out of business. There is a cute little space that would make for a nice boutique ala Montgomery, located on St. Nicholas around 146th or 147th Street. So it was timely that the Columbia Spectator published a piece titled, “Economic Struggles Hit West Harlem’s Small Businesses.”
The article is pretty comprehensive and looks at businesses that range from florists to beauty salons. According to the article,
Consistent with historical norms of economic depression, the only two industries in the area that appear to be successfully weathering the storm are hair salons and bars.
What are some of the “luxury” items that you will be giving up due to the impending recession?
Posted on October 16, 2008 by D. Bell