[ADob]

As much as I like the overall concept, I have to say the looming entryway doesn't do much to make it feel welcoming. And then there's the massive vehicle traffic along Gateway that doesn't help either. Unfortunately, this seems more of a destination spot than a walking along and checking things out type of set-up. I know we used to pop into Wish List far more often when it was right on the ave.

 

[_urbanite]

As much as I likethe overall concept, I have to say the looming entryway doesn't do much to make it feel welcoming. And then there's the massive traffic along Gateway that doesn't help either. Unfortunately, this seems more of a destination spot than a walking along and checking things out type of set-up. I know we used to pop into Wish List far more often when it was right on the ave.

I think they put building in the wrong part of the lot. Should've been closer to the avenue in order to better capture east-west foot traffic.

 

[thommyjo]

I’ve been concerned as well about how busy the place is. Such a huge investment to run it all.

My hunch is that they need to sort out some event and wedding type stuff (although weddings probably eat into the busiest Saturday crowds).

We just need way more tourism and office workers in the area for a concept like this to thrive I think. Don’t think station park can survive just off “locals”.

 

[fromyeg]

The City has proposed a connection at 80th Ave across the rail yard.

Not sure if there is any current movement on this, but I think it would help encourage more foot traffic between Whyte and 80th Ave on the east side of Gateway.

 

[David A]

I think they put building in the wrong part of the lot. Should've been closer to the avenue in order to better capture east-west foot traffic.

It is quite visible and not far from Whyte Ave, but perhaps that little distance is a psychological barrier as people are focused on moving east west.

I also feel the entrance is not that welcoming so they may need to come up with some things to entice people in more, maybe not a major rework, but some tweaks.

However, this area also tends to get busier as summer goes along, and it is still just late spring, so hopefully it will pick up some too.

 

[_urbanite]

It is quite visible and not far from Whyte Ave, but perhaps that little distance is a psychological barrier as people are focused on moving east west.

I also feel the entrance is not that welcoming so they may need to come up with some things to entice people in more, maybe not a major rework, but some tweaks.

It does have visibility, but that small distance is a psychological barrier for many people. A destination tenant is needed to entice people to traverse that distance. As nice as those little shops may be, they're not enough to convince people to veer off the beaten path sorta speak, and the north-south foot traffic on that side of the street isn't steady enough.

Perhaps it will get better if the 2nd phase with residential gets started south of MKT, but that's a ways off right now, and likely still won't generate enough sufficient foot traffic.

 

[kcantor]

It does have visibility, but that small distance is a psychological barrier for many people. A destination tenant is needed to entice people to traverse that distance. As nice as those little shops may be, they're not enough to convince people to veer off the beaten path sorta speak, and the north-south foot traffic on that side of the street isn't steady enough.

Perhaps it will get better if the 2nd phase with residential gets started south of MKT, but that's a ways off right now, and likely still won't generate enough sufficient foot traffic.

It's not only the short distance from White Ave. that's a psychological barrier, it's compounded by the fact there is no sidewalk on the east side of Gateway Boulevard from White Ave. to the main building. I understand the rationale for trying to reroute that pedestrian traffic through their "courtyard" but the lack of visibility and transparency is probably a big disincentive.

 

[scyeg]

Honestly, it just doesn't feel lively when you're in the space. Little things like exterior speakers playing music, more benches and tables to sit at, live music and art shows are all little things that could help it feel like a place you want to cross the street to check out. Just needs some things to create its own vibe.

 

[Gronk!]

The grand opening for DRTY Ice Cream is on June 7.

 

[MattPT]

What was. Hopefully this doesn’t take MKT down with it. Did it already have a full summer with the relocated patio?

 

[Platinum107]

I love how ambitious Beljan is with their projects and I know this will get more successful with time, but as of now they may need to work on their marketing and activation of this site. Maybe they should talk to the Farmer's market and cook something up for the weekends

 

[Gronk!]

They should be discussing marketing strategies with the folks who operate the streetcar just across Whyte Ave - right, @cliffapotamus?

 

[mcr]

What was. Hopefully this doesn’t take MKT down with it. Did it already have a full summer with the relocated patio?

They have, indeed. The patio was relocated at least 2 years ago, if not 3.

 

[Gronk!]

 

[IanO]

First time at EPIC Market/Station Park yesterday.

Really cool concept, but they are having real issues with people stopping at Gateway/Whyte and turning back vs. crossing the street and exploring; ~50% of the retail is vacant. They hope to create a more event based draw in the plaza next year.

EPIC super cool, reminds me of places in much larger cities, but again, how do you get enough people there on a regular basis to support 4 or 5 kitchens and two bars. Food prices were higher than I expected, but the food looked really good.