Filling storefronts in downtown Decorah

A sign at the former Bargain Outlet

Downtown Decorah is going through a period of rapid change in businesses.  A number of old businesses have moved or closed due to retirement, while several new businesses have taken their place.

Still, there are half a dozen or so empty storefronts at this time.  "I'm not worried at all," says Winneshiek County Development Executive Director Stephanie Fromm.  That's because, as she points out, none of the businesses that have closed have done so because of business failures, but rather because the owners are retiring or the business is moving outside the downtown business district.

Fromm says her organization is helping prospective new businesses to find spaces in downtown Decorah.  WCDI currently has a list of building availabilities, with information on rental prices and square footage.  Fromm says building owners whose storefronts become empty should contact her for the free listing.

WCDI is also helping to counsel prospective new business owners.  Twice a monthly business consultant Amy Chicos will meet with people interested in starting a business or expanding into Decorah.  This service is also free.

Downtown Decorah Betterment Association's annual meeting is coming up the morning of March 23rd at the Hotel Winneshiek.  Fromm says she will speak to the group, giving it an update on all the changes downtown.