Grayson: Long-Vacant Buildings Get Another Chance With Dustin Howard

It has been a while since the last load of laundry was washed at A-1 Laundromat, or a roll of film processed in 30 minutes at Kwik Photo, or a taco platter ordered from Toro Loco. While none of those businesses will be coming back, there will be new life in those long vacant buildings within months, following Grayson business owner Dustin Howard's recent purchase of the property.

"This one's getting a whole new roof," Howard said Monday afternoon, shortly after emerging from a back room wearing a mask and carrying a claw hammer, pointing the tool upward from within the former laundromat space.
"The inside is going to be brand new too," he added.
The first tenant will be USA Nails, which now operates from next door to Howard's ZZ's Bar & Grill and Kentucky Kutz barber shop, adjacent to Dixie Lanes bowling center.
Retailer Perfectly Mismatched, now located on the edge of Grayson along Rt. 7, will follow soon after with a target date of November 1.
"They are so excited," Howard commented, explaining the former laundry center will be divided into two spaces.
Howard said he several calls to return from people interested in leasing space.
"I'm pretty well full already ... it's just getting it all done. I've got three for sure," he said with a combination laugh and sigh.

The two properties have been home to several past businesses and offices, possibly including a doctor's office, Howard said. Painted signs in the window of the former Toro Loco restaurant remain visible for the time being. 

Howard said he hopes to to find retail shops for every space.
"I'm hoping to do all shopping - retail," he said, noting the two upstairs units on the former Kwik Photo building are offices and not apartments - "It's all commercial space and no residential."
Howard said he is focusing on renovations and repairs to the building on the 2ns Street side before tackling issues with the building closer to 3rd Street.

Howard said anyone interested in one of the to-be-available spaces can contact him by calling 606-315-5178.

Info & Photos by TIM PRESTON 

Carter County Post