retail « City Block

Frager's Hardware

Yesterday evening, Frager’s Hardware went up in flames in a four-alarm blaze. The iconic neighborhood institution has been in operation since 1920.

It’s the kind of neighborhood store many would love to have. At the same time, the store represents more than just a hardware store. While it can’t compete with the big box stores on price,

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On restaurants, retail, and clustering

A few intersecting stories regarding retail and restaurants:

In DC, a group of activists are pushing a moratorium on new liquor licenses for 14th and U and environs. There has been substantial pushback to the idea of a moratorium, yet proponents insist the dominance of bars and restaurants are crowding out brick-and-mortar retail establishments.

Continue reading On restaurants, retail, and clustering – agglomeration economies and urban retail trends

eBooks and Cities

Ryan Avent’s recently published Kindle Single on urban economics entitled “The Gated City” finally enticed me to venture into eBooks. I’ve tested out friends’ Kindles, but never felt the urge to spend my cash on one – I still like the feel of a real book and don’t care to carry yet another device around,

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Nightlife agglomerations & the corner bar

The Corner Bar, Divernon IL – CC image from Randy von Liski

A few booze-related items I thought I’d comment on:

The Hill is Home takes note of ANC 6B‘s seemingly preferred method to avoid “Adams Morganization” – a moratorium on all new liquor licenses. Nevermind that the trigger for this fear of Adams Morgan is

Continue reading Nightlife agglomerations & the corner bar

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City Block

Frager's Hardware

On restaurants, retail, and clustering

eBooks and Cities

Nightlife agglomerations & the corner bar

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