Letter: A Juneau restored vision for Front Street

The recent closure of Ben Franklin after 50 years on Front Street is more than just the loss of a store; it feels like the end of an era for downtown Juneau. As we walk past the growing number of darkened windows on our historic Front Street it is easy to feel a sense of decline. However, rather than letting these storefronts sit empty for years we should see them as an opportunity to launch a "Juneau Restored" program.

Modelled after the successful "Seattle Restored" initiative, this program would match local artists, makers, and budding entrepreneurs with vacant commercial spaces for short-term "pop-up" activations. In Seattle, the city partners with nonprofits and property owners to turn "dark" windows into vibrant art galleries, retail incubator spaces, and artist residencies by offering free rent to artists and entrepreneurs in exchange for temporary use of the space.

The benefits for Juneau would be threefold:

1. Economic vitality: It lowers the barrier to entry for local entrepreneurs to test a business model without the risk of a long-term lease.

2. Beautification: Instead of "for lease" signs and dusty windows, Front Street would feature rotating art installations and active shops, making downtown more inviting for both locals and tourists.

3. Security: Occupied spaces are safer spaces. Activity brings foot traffic, which naturally discourages the issues often associated with vacant urban blocks.

We have an incredible wealth of talent in this city, from Tlingit artists to cottage-industry makers, who just need an opportunity to shine. I urge our Assembly, the Downtown Business Association, the Juneau Economic Development Council, and the Juneau Arts and Humanities Council to look at the Seattle model. Let’s turn the closing of a chapter on Front Street into the beginning of a new, creative renaissance for Juneau.

Jerry McManus

Juneau