If you’re a native to Columbia, you know firsthand how much Main St. has changed. Since the Nickelodeon Theatre + Mast General Store moved to the 1600 block almost a decade ago, the once-quiet Main St. has experienced an economic + social revival. But with growth comes growing pains.

While increased traffic is driving new businesses to the area, competition to stay profitable against rising rent prices threatens both old + new tenants. Companies who own their property, like King's Jewelers, “aren't going anywhere,” but rising rent prices may force other small business to relocate to North Main St., or to less popular side streets. The city is working with Historic Columbia to secure work credits for companies that would not be able to afford renovations on their own.

The city is also continually working to make Main St. safe + accessible for customers. Safety patrol – the “yellow shirts” you see walking downtown (remember Patrice?) – will have an increased presence as business continues to grow in the area.

4 min read / Post and Courier