After FortThomasMatters broke the story that after 70 years, Smitty’s Barbershop would be forced to move from their location at 22 N. Fort Thomas Ave in the Hiland Building, it was assumed that a new business would soon occupy that space and the vacant space behind Smitty’s location.
Per Smitty’s Co-Owner, Brian Akers, that’s exactly what the landlord had told them. “We were notified the day before Thanksgiving that there was another business interested in our storefront as well as the vacant space behind (Smitty’s Barbershop) and that our lease would not be renewed.”
With brown paper lining the windows, a “For Rent” sign posted and a feint “Smitty’s Barbershop” still looming over the marquis, it seems as if the building will not immediately house a new tenant as first thought.
“We are currently renovating the two spaces and they are available. They can be seen by calling the property manager,” said Don Cornette, the landlord of the Hiland Buildng.
Smitty’s has moved into a new location in the Inverness District on N. Fort Thomas Ave. Co-Owner Brian Akers said that they are happy in their new, larger location. Smitty’s moved into their new location on January 1 this year.
Based on comparable rental rates on Loopnet.com for Fort Thomas and the rate Smitty’s was paying in 22 N. Fort Thomas Ave, the landlord could conceivably have the location vacant for 6 months before losing out on rent money had Smitty’s been allowed to stay.
Whatever the case, the combination of 22 N. Fort Thomas Ave. being vacant, 15 N. Fort Thomas Ave (old Mio’s) still not announcing a new retailer, and this most recent winter storm literally blocking pedestrian traffic to our local businesses is not a good situation for the Towne Centre District.
Empty storefronts are not good for surrounding retailers. Bottom line.
What do you think would work in the new location?
