Monday, December 17, 2007
Local businessman offering residential lofts in Opelika’s historic downtown buildings
One local business man is working to make downtown Opelika not just a place to shop and dine, but a place to live, as well.
June 30, 2007
One local business man is working to make downtown Opelika not just a place to shop and dine, but a place to live, as well.
Lofts are emerging above downtown businesses and breathing new life into long-vacant buildings. The building that once housed Jan’s Creations in downtown Opelika has since morphed into a PEPS business with a loft apartment above it, according to preservationist John Marsh, who owns about 10 buildings in downtown Opelika. Two lofts above Jackie’s Cards and Gifts at 127 S. Eighth St. are under construction and are already sold. Three lofts will be housed above the former Goodson’s Jewelry store, now called Fringe, and six lofts are slated for Railroad Avenue.
“A model loft ... will be complete in three to four months,“ Marsh said of the Lofts on Railroad Avenue, which will house its own fitness center. “Folks will be able to take a look at it and see what they like and want in their own loft.“
In other downtown news, L&M Design, an interior design company, has taken up residence at the historic Traywick Building at 829 Railroad Ave. Meanwhile, a fine dining restaurant is expected to open at 833 Railroad Avenue.
“We’re in the last stages of negotiations,“ Marsh said.
Another restaurant is on the downtown horizon at 811 Railroad Ave. and will replace Opelika Coffee Company.
“It’s a done deal,“ said Marsh of the restaurant, which will specialize in Southern home cooking.
With all the downtown merchants, dining, arts and now lofts, Marsh says the downtown Opelika area has become a model area of growth and prosperity.
“I never expected it to take off like this,“ Marsh said. “There is a tremendous amount of renovation going on in downtown Opelika, and it’s wonderful to see.“
For loft information in downtown Opelika, call Marsh at (334)749-5616.