The new "One Davis Square"

[billharnois.livejournal.com]

Here's what the new One Davis Square building will look like in Fall 2007.

Comments

[chumbolly.livejournal.com]

That's a great idea. That section of Highland really needs a strong draw, and TJ's sure would do the trick. But I'll bet Brooks is in for the duration.

[ron_newman]

Brooks is about to become Rite Aid, but yeah, they own the building so I doubt they're about to disappear.

[chumbolly.livejournal.com]

They own the building?! That's unusual, and it actually makes me more optimistic that they'd clear out. If they leased, they'd be faced with the prospect of eating part of the cost of the lease (which for a commercial building like that would typically have a 10-15 year term) if they closed the store. But if they own the building, they gain something (the value of the building) if they were to close down and sell the place. Presumably, if they couldn't compete with CVS, they'd be better off selling out. But on the other hand, they just completed a half-assed re-model, so I'm sure they'll stick around.

[ron_newman]

That's what Rebekah told me, they own the building. The subject came up when they painted over the Wall of Respect mural.

[cook-ting.livejournal.com]

Seriously, if they could burn the lease they just might. That section of Highland could use something big and Trader Joe's is just the thing. Send them an e-mail if you get the chance. Let's get this ball rolling.

[gildersleeve.livejournal.com]

TJ would be great, but if it goes in, you can bet it will help lead to the demise of McKinnons, plus the little fruit and vegetable place next to the Goodwill, and perhaps some of the smaller variety stores in the area. I'm not saying 'no' to the TJ, but people generally complain about more chains (even good ones like TJ) and how there are less of the neighborhood businesses of old, yet here we are proposing a national chain move in and endanger some of the local shops that make Davis so cool and diverse. If these little places go, you are more likely to see more restaurants (and possible chain restaurants at that, since they can pay the rent) replace them.

Just some 'food' for thought!

[ron_newman]

My impression is that people don't go to TJ's for fresh fruits and veggies, which is the specialty of that place next to Goodwill.