Several new firms chose to open in Walled Lake in '10

A flock of businesses in Walled Lake opened their doors in 2010, with others pending and under construction.

According to Downtown Development Authority (DDA) Director Charlene Long, requests for information and property lists are pouring in every day.

“The DDA is very excited about the tremendous number of new businesses coming to our downtown,” she said. “We are experiencing a high volume of inquiries from prospective business owners … even during these tough economic times.”

Hair Trendz Salon, owned and operated by Janice Hallett, opened up in November at 1332 S. Commerce Road and lauds the city as one full of opportunities.

“Affordable rent, a Facade and Sign Grant program for businesses located in the DDA district and a streamlined development process to help cut through the red tape in opening a business are just some of the things that are attracting potential businesses to our Oakland County Main Street Community,” Hallett said.

In December, Dollar Save-On set up shop in the former Rite Aid site at 700 N. Pontiac Trail. The 9,375 square-foot store, which is currently being refurbished, will house items ranging from health and beauty products to gifts.

“In this tough economy, we want to give customers a great deal on the items they are looking for,” said Amanda Kassab, the owner of Dollar Save-On. “We are from the area and wanted to bring the concept to Walled Lake.”

Another 16 new businesses opened last year, including H2 Hydroponics; the Back Room at Home Interior Warehouse; Beauty by Ann Spa Salon; Audra’s Addictions; Bazonzoes; CRE Counseling; Cynergy; Cycle Therapy; The Bead Boutique (formerly Michigan Bead Company); Cut & More (formerly Fantastic Sam’s); Maple Auto Repair (formerly Mr. Muffler); Sav-a-lot; The Ability House; A&N Apothecary; and Lakes Area Alarm.

A trio of businesses are set to move in over the next few months, including a Tubby’s restaurant that is expected to open this month. The 2,600 square-foot store will provide a drive-through window, indoor seating and 800 square feet of outdoor patio space. Currently, owners are facilitating major renovations and have partnered with the DDA on a proposed parking lot layout to mitigate traffic, a driveway relocation, sidewalk replacement, awning work, additional lighting and landscape improvement.

No firm date has been slated for the opening of both L. George’s Coney Island and Emily’s Sweets & Treats, which are also under construction.

In tandem with the number of local business openings, the city bid farewell to 11 businesses last year.

“Two were just a name change with the same owner,” Long said.