The struggle is real at the once-popular corner of Bethesda and Woodmont Avenues at Bethesda Row. Once a crowded and bustling gathering space, the plaza became a lonely place after the devastating closures of the Regal Cinemas Bethesda 10 cineplex and former retail anchor Barnes & Noble. Successor Anthropolgie & Co. reportedly pays more rent than B&N did, but doesn't draw anywhere near the same foot traffic. Now the store's
Terrain Cafe has closed indefinitely due to the coronavirus pandemic.
A spokesperson for the cafe said it was a "difficult decision" to close, and that the cafe will only return "when we are safe to reopen at 100% capacity." The latter statement is important, because the small size of the cafe makes it difficult to turn a profit under the current Montgomery County Phase 2 seating limits for indoor dining.
Saying closure of the Regal Cinemas Bethesda 10 cineplex had an impact on this plaza is a real stretch, let alone being a devastating closure. Most patrons of the theatre complex would hardly hangout on the plaza, either before or after a movie. Hell, the Landmark Cinema across the street has hardly any impact on the foot traffic at the plaza. It's basic draw was for the B&N tennants.
ReplyDeleteI agree with this. I frequented the regal often back in the day and never felt the connection to Bethesda Row. I would drive in and park and go right back down to the garage. Anecdotally I would see many patrons do the same.
DeleteBarnes & Noble did draw me in though. As does the Apple Store. The rest of the retail boutique Women’s clothing stores and such are hardly high volume traffic drivers, especially on a regular basis. As we can see by their turnover as well.
7:48: That was the first drop in foot traffic, when the theater closed. There just weren't as many people coming to downtown Bethesda anymore. More parking spaces were listed as open on the digital signs at Bethesda Row after the theater closed, as well. I documented all of this as it happened over several years.
ReplyDeleteAnthropolgie & Co. Will quietly close within the next 12 months. No way they can survive with that much square footage and no foot traffic.
ReplyDeleteWhat does everyone want to see in this space? Hopefully something more inclusive and useful.
Our rapidly changing city!
ReplyDelete10:18: Sure, many people did park below, but then they would drive around the block and patronize other businesses. Many others walked. You would actually see them walking up and down Elm Street in great numbers all night. The way only a lifelong resident can bring it to you!!
ReplyDeleteEataly! Bethesda needs Eataly. Perfect for browsing, snacking, shopping, great variety.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.eataly.com/us_en/
Thriving Italian market, that's what we need!