There's a lot changing along Bardstown Road. And some of that change hurts.
The Bristol Bar & Grill announced that it is closing its doors in the Highlands after nearly 50 years. Five decades of birthdays, anniversaries, first dates and family dinners gone. And it's not the only one. Mark's Feed Store, Comedy Caravan and Baxter Avenue Theaters are closed or closing, too. These aren't just businesses. They're landmarks. They're part of what makes this neighborhood one of the most vibrant, creative and beloved areas of our city.
There is promise in the development coming at Mid City Mall. New businesses mean new energy, new jobs and new reasons for people to spend time and money. But if we want Bardstown Road to remain a place filled with independent shops, local restaurants and family-run businesses, we must support them. Buy your Derby outfit from a local boutique instead of clicking "order now" and having it delivered to your doorstep. Support means having dinner at a locally-owned restaurant or grabbing coffee from the place that knows your name.
Local businesses built Bardstown Road. And if we want it to stay vibrant, we have to do our part to keep it alive. Convenience may be easy, but keeping a community takes effort.
What are your thoughts?
I'm Bill Lamb, and that's my Point of View.
