Trending
LOCK HAVEN -- Now that it's been approved by PennDOT, many local business owners are excited about the closure of Main Street in downtown.
"I think it's a wonderful idea. It could save the downtown," Louis Anastos, owner of Stella A's Bar and Grill said.
Anastos is excited about the prospect of the city drawing more attention to its downtown.
"We're just going to do it and do it right," he said.
He said with the closure he'd be able to make up for the loss of indoor seating out front of the restaurant near the corner of Jay and Main streets.
Brittany Johnston, who manages Lanning Music, feels the closure of Main Street could help highlight what the downtown has to offer.
"I think it would be cool. That's something where Brad could go outside and play music to maybe draw people into the store," she said. "It could be something nice to spotlight our downtown."
Although she isn't sure they'd participate in Saturday, Lori Cailio -- owner of Leo's Italian and Specialty Food -- said it could draw more customers in on Fridays.
"I think that would be fun," she said. "I don't know if we'd be open Saturday but Friday nights are a big night for people to eat out."
Long time businesses owner in the downtown, Art Sanders, said the closures remind him of days gone by.
"I have such great memories of summers in Lock Haven with sidewalk sales and I hope that this can revitalize that tradition," Sanders said.
Not only does Sanders see it as a benefit to all local businesses downtown, he also hopes it brings more customers to local restaurants.
"I see it as a huge benefit for the restaurants and hope it will encourage people to come and relax and enjoy a nice meal outside this summer," he said.
Both Art and his daughter Fabre who helps manage his business It Is What It Is are thankful for the city for putting the plan together.