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Articles
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| Store owners mull 'gap' in retailing future on Barracks |
VOICE writes, "Retail stores cause ‘Gap’ on Barracks Row
BY BEN WEINSTEIN
Capitol Hill residents had mixed responses to recent news about The Gap or another large clothing retailer possibly opening on Barracks Row — while some say they want those shopping options within walking distance, others worry big chains could eventually erode the neighborhood's character.
The Washington Business Journal reported this month that an investment firm sales representative was courting The Gap and J. Crew for Eighth Street, SE. Area advisory neighborhood commissioner Julie Olson responded with a letter criticizing the idea, specifically taking issue with replacing Alvear Studio & Design Imports with a chain retailer."
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"I am astounded that anyone would want to make our lovely little neighborhood into a soulless Georgetown with a Gap or J. Crew," Olson wrote to Roy Hill, a sales associate with the Marcus & Millichap investment firm. Hill, who represents area property owners, said in the article that the Alvear Studio building, 703 and 705 Eighth St., could accommodate The Gap or J. Crew.
But other residents disagreed with Olson. Several members of a local listserv said they don't want to have to drive to neighborhoods across the city, much less to Virginia, to shop for clothes.
"I certainly don't want to see any of the successful local businesses on Barracks Row close," said Capitol Hill resident Kate Wulff. But she said there's room for some bigger chains on Eighth Street. "I'd rather my sales tax go to D.C."
Hill, who is also a Capitol Hill resident, said the area's ready for larger retailers and that the demographics, including income levels, show it. "I think it's time," Hill said in an interview. "There's always resistance to change."
But Hill added that he will gauge support for chain-retail stores, and that "nothing will be done unilaterally." Additionally, The Gap might not be the right fit. "It could be something less familiar."
Cristina Amoruso, executive director of Barracks Row Main Street, said no large retailer like The Gap, J. Crew or Banana Republic has yet expressed interest. She did say other retailers "from outside the Hill" are considering Eighth Street locations.
"Before we do anything, we need studies," Amoruso said about the direction of Barracks Row retail. She added that any large retail chain would also need in-depth area studies before deciding on a new location.
Opposed residents believe a top-tier retailer would change the neighborhood landscape and eventually force local businesses out with higher rents and taxes. Amoruso said that may be true but that there are other possible effects.
She said a store like The Gap brings with it regular customers, foot traffic and advertising, all of which could have positive spillover effects for surrounding businesses. "If you put a few [large retailers] in D.C. neighborhoods, they will advertise and people will go and see what's on the way."
On the other hand, the minute those stores come into a neighborhood, rents go up, Amoruso said. "How much more can we pay in rent?"
Amoruso said the vision for Barracks Row isn't a shopping destination to fit all needs. It could use new clothing stores, a toy store and other retailers Hill residents might drive to Virginia for, she said. "We'll keep at least a portion of Capitol Hill [residents'] purchases on Capitol Hill."
As for Alvear Studio, Amoruso said "it is one of our most beloved businesses here on Barracks Row," and the organization intends to retain good businesses.
Owner Chris Alvear said he was surprised and upset by the recent article. "It was just kind of absurd," he said, adding that he hadn't heard the building was for sale.
Alvear said his store, which has been on Eighth Street for eight years, helped get Barracks Row to where it is today. "It's a slap in the face."
Building owner Margot Kelly did not comment on the possible sale.
He said he would like to see more support for small, local businesses to keep rent and taxes affordable. But he also credited The Gap for his retail training.
"The irony of it is, I worked for The Gap for more than 11 years."
BOX
What do you think: Should a national retail chain move onto Barracks Row? Take the online poll at www.voiceofthehill.com.
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Posted on Sep 26, 2007 17:23pm.
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