Business is Blooming: New Establishments Help Downtown Continue to Thrive

by Downtown Alliance

New businesses are springing up in downtown Salt Lake City, bucking the global economic downturn that has pummeled communities across the country. "The influx of new business showcases the continued vibrancy of our downtown community even during a severe national recession," said Jason Mathis, Executive Director of the Downtown Alliance. "Unique downtown businesses are a key component to creating a dynamic and unique urban experience and will help downtown Salt Lake City continue to thrive."

In addition to brand new downtown dining options like Bruges Waffles and Frites, Eva Mediterranean Tapas, J Wong's Asian Bistro, and the Olive Bistro, businesses that have recently opened in the city center include:

* Atomic Blonde Salon (350 South 200 East) has relocated to the heart of the city in The Metro Condo building. The new salon has skilled stylists, a casual atmosphere, great music, a variety of hair and esthetic services, and sells several product lines. More information visit www.atomicblondesalon.com.
* Bingham Cyclery (336 West 300 South) opened its flagship store at Uffens Marketplace just north of Pioneer Park. Biking downtown is an easy way to travel from one place to another and it's the preferred form of transit by "green" enthusiasts. This is the second significant bike store to open downtown in the past year. More information visit www.binghamcyclery.com.
* Meyer Gallery (350 South 200 East) opened its Salt Lake City gallery in The Metro Condo building. The Meyer Gallery was established in 1965 in Park City and is one of the most respected galleries in the west. The gallery specializes in bronze sculpture and representational and impressionistic oil and watercolor paintings by regional and national artists. More information visit www.meyergallery.com.
* The Green Ant (179 East 300 South) closed its doors in Sugarhouse and opened them on Broadway. This vintage modern furniture Modern furniture (specializing in pieces from the 1960's and 1970's) and eclectic clothing store offers the quintessential merchandise for admirers of sleek and chic style. More information visit www.thegreenant.com.
* Uptown Cheapskate (353 West 200 South) is an upscale thrift store dedicated to selling famous fashions without an expensive price tag. This franchise clothing store is "more than a fashion exchange concept. It is an attitude, a personality, and an art form." More information visit www.uptowncheapskate.com.

"A new light rail line to the airport, changes to Utah's private club laws, a new cultural district, and the completion of significant construction projects will help to propel downtown for the next few years," Mathis said. "It is a good time to be in Salt Lake City." Downtown Salt Lake City continues to benefit from more than 1000 construction jobs, helping to pump more than $1.6 million per day into the regional economy.