The size of the plans definitely seem lofty with no parking being added. There was mention of something like 20 stores...I really don't see how that is possible by size or with parking, or how they would get a sustainable amount of business in today's age of online retail.
My guess is it scales back to just a 1 or 2 restaurants (Cane's would KILL there with the students) and a couple stores on the ground level and apartments above. You know, like the rest of Court Street. The parking concerns if it becomes are true hotel are legit. I don't think their average customer is going to want to park a half mile away at the garage and haul their luggage over there, and it isn't big enough to justify a full scale shuttle service.
Without a drive thru, not sure what fast food restaurant would survive there.
nothing on court street has a drive thru. why would this be any different?
My point is, BK and Taco Bell left because no drive through. Both also saw their profits quadruple. So, why would it matter? Athens does not have the uptown foot traffic of High Street in Columbus. Most the Athens eateries run greatly reduced hours in the summer when students are not in town. BK actually left Court Street for E State and had 4 years left on their lease and paid it to be empty, while owner made record profits paying on a lease and mortgage of new business. And to my point, what fast food joint is on Court? Remember, Wendy’s, BK, Taco Bell have all left Court Street for other locations. That does say something.
Last Edited: 1/17/2025 3:32:19 PM by BillyTheCat