What’s ‘Food Hall’ proposal for Olympia all about? Plus a jeweler celebrates 75 years
The people proposing what they call the State Street Food Hall met with the city of Olympia’s site plan review committee this week to learn more about what it will take to make their project a reality.
The proposal calls for the former Providence Community Care Center at 225 State Ave. NE to be transformed into a place that would welcome startup food vendors, and offer a commissary kitchen they could share.
A representative at the meeting said startup chefs typically can’t afford to build out there own kitchens, which can cost as much as $100,000.
“The idea is to bring in the next generation of chefs and have an environment for everyone,” a representative of the State Street Food Hall team said.
Those food vendors would occupy the main floor of the building, plus there will be space for a small restaurant, bar or retail shop. The building also will feature a large, covered outdoor dining area, as well as a one-bedroom apartment on the second floor.
The Providence Community Care Center officially closed last year.
Other business happenings
Sound and Vision Living, a downtown Olympia retailer of vintage furnishings, accessories and gifts, is moving to another downtown location, the business announced.
Sometime in August, the business expects to move to 114 Capitol Way N., just north of State Street, from its current spot at 721 Fourth Ave. E.
Panowicz Jewelers, which is located downtown across from the Olympia Farmers Market, is celebrating 75 years in business, third-generation owner Leslie Panowicz announced.
“I remember growing up in the store; I’d come after school and help out my dad each day,” she said in a statement. “We are so excited to celebrate our 75th anniversary and invite you to join us.”
The business was founded in 1948 by the late Anton Panowicz, Sr., following his service in World War ll.
“He embarked on a journey that would leave an indelible mark on our community,” a news release reads. “With humble beginnings, Panowicz Jewelers started as a small family-owned business, offering watches, clocks, china and jewelry.”
The business is celebrating in several ways, including with what it calls an Olympia Scavenger Hunt. For more details about how the scavenger hunt works, go to Panowicz.com.
Work continues on MultiCare Health System’s off-campus emergency department at Golf Club Road Southeast and Pacific Avenue in Lacey.
The 10,000-square-foot building will house a 10-bed emergency department. It is expected to open this fall.
If you know of a retailer, restaurant, coffee shop or other business that is opening, closing, expanding, remodeling, or changing its focus, send an email to reporter Rolf Boone at rboone@theolympian.com.
