Several area independent stores have put themselves up for sale this summer. The Quality Market in Barre — known for its well-stocked butcher shop and fish offerings — has a new sign out front saying, “Own this iconic store. Call 603-643-3700.” The Meadow Mart at 284 Elm Street in Montpelier — known for its creemees and deli — is listed by William Raveis Stowe Realty for $450,000. And, the Plainfield Hardware store — known for garden supplies, groceries, deli, and pet supplies as well as a whole inventory of paint and hardware — is listed with Paul Spera Company Realtors in Stowe for $1,500,000.
Plainfield Coop Ponders Move Across the River
Delays caused by recent construction on the bridge connecting Plainfield Village to civilization and other woes have led the Plainfield Coop board and its members to put on their thinking caps. At a recent meeting of members, ideas were exchanged about what to do about a severe financial crunch. Some suggested shrinking the scale of the store to reduce expenses. Ideas included opening fewer days and cutting down on the variety of items. Others suggested a move across the river, since the current location is very convenient for village inhabitants but not for outside motorists. Properties suggested for setting up shop out of the village included the Plainfield Hardware Store or the Allenwood property — both on Route 2. Still other members suggested revitalizing the existing location with more vibrant offerings and events, and maybe more marketing to new shoppers.
Pioneer Street Closes
If you have been out and about in Montpelier recently, you have noticed Pioneer Street has been closed and detour signs have been placed sending people to College Street and across the Granite Street Bridge by Hunger Mountain Coop in limited directions. The Montpelier Police Department advises access onto the Granite Street Bridge is prohibited from River Street/Route 2 and Berlin Street/Route 2 eastbound. Area businesses are open and accessible. According to vtrans.vermont.gov, this is for work to upgrade the railroad crossing.
City Weighs in on Vermont College of Fine Arts Property
Montpelier city officials want to help decide what happens to the Vermont College of Fine Arts property, according to the City Manager’s weekly report dated July 15. “We may also consider whether some of the buildings and land have value for city use,” the report states.
