It’s beginning to look like The Russell’s re-opening is going to happen.
In July they announced their move from Pratt Street — where they’ve been for 15 years — to Allyn Street, a short walk from Union Station. Now, there are signs and a patio. It’s refreshing to see them in a spot that does not have a previous tenant’s (Xando’s) door handles, filled with moldy coffee beans.
The new location has its advantages and challenges. Its proximity to the train station and Black-Eyed Sally’s are perks. The sea of surface parking lots that are typically nowhere near capacity, giving the area a rundown look– that’s something to overcome.
Two of those four lots could be put into more productive use. Why not turn chunks of these lots into outdoor dining spaces for nearby restaurants? Why not a makeshift performing space? Black-Eyed Sally’s regularly draws solid musical acts and The Russell has had spoken word nights. Depave other sections of the lots and add more vegetation. Create a space that invites people.
In the meantime, it’s worth celebrating every time a local business manages to put one foot in front of the other during this pandemic.