WACO, TEXAS — The first space at a retail center in North Waco can now be leased.
In 2017, Mission Waco bought the building in the 1500 block of Colcord Avenue where Martha Jane's Liquor Store was housed for 40 years.
The nonprofit is in the process of transforming the building into a retail center with space for three suites. Recently, the renovation of the first suite, which is 1,100 square feet, was completed.
"We really want a business that will have a positive impact in our neighborhood," Mission Waco Executive Director John Calaway said.
Calaway said this effort will help with the revitalization of North Waco.
"This whole intersection 25 to 30 years ago...was the corridor of gang activity, prostitution and drugs," Calaway said.
David Daniels who has lived in the Brook Oaks Neighborhood for 71 years said as a kid, his parents advised him to stay away from 15th and Colcord due to the problems in that area.
Daniels, the Jubilee Food Market produce manager, has noticed the difference of the neighborhood first hand.
"I never thought I would see kids coming up here by themselves, get out of school with their backpacks. Come here and shop," Daniels said.
According to Calaway, the Jubilee Food Market and Jubilee Theater have helped the area turn around.
"All of this has been transformed over the years and really does represent a growing, and expanding and thriving neighborhood, which is the what we want to see develop into," Calaway said.
Two additional retail spaces at Colcord Center are expected to be completed by the end of the year.
Daniels look forward to welcoming new neighbors to the area.
"Don't look as this neighborhood for what yesterday did. Look at it for what it is today," Daniels said.
If you are interested in the retail space available, contact Rydell Real Estate at 254-870-3225.
