Business Matters | Volume 4, Issue 3

Railroad's Fourth Block Breathes New Life

Main Street has long been hailed as the heart of a community. In Shelton, Railroad Avenue has stood as an economic and retail cornerstone for more than 125 years.

Since the Chamber and EDC hosted a Tour of Empty Buildings in 2013, many of the decrepit spaces have been filled up with new retail spaces, eateries, and unique places. It is thanks to the passion and grit of determined entrepreneurs that we have seen the beginnings of a sort of renaissance on Railroad. You may have noticed that the fourth block has become reinvented and is now a draw for residents and visitors.

Mestizos Latin Food is the newest addition. The family- and veteran-owned eatery, located in the former home of The Strip Steakhouse, has been beautifully transformed and features Salvadorian and Mexican cuisine as well as a monthly special from a different Latin country. Chef Jack (son of owners Brenda & Patrick Gradert) brings with him years of experience in high-end restaurants and a passion for Latin fare.

Shelton Candy Shoppe, located next door, is giving us all the nostalgia vibes. They carry local candy artists and childhood favorites, an array of nationally recognized brands you've always loved, and even vegan, organic, and gluten free options. Stop in to visit with owners Phillip and Kayla (selfdubbed “sugar dealers”) and grab yourself a treat! There are lots of Washington-sourced goodies, including pints of local Olympic Mountain Ice Cream.

And earlier this summer, Wilde Irish Pub opened the doors to the highly anticipated full-service bar and eclectic restaurant. Jim & Nikki Boad love to travel and that provided the inspiration for this space. The couple purchased the old Ming Tree building two years ago and slowly transformed it into a modern pub with a jovial vibe. WIP takes pride in serving fresh, local, seasonal food as well as craft cocktails, fine Whiskeys, and an amazing selection of draft beers.

Fat Cat Coffee, moved to its quaint location on the corner of the Angle Building in 2021, the same year being named Chamber Rookie of the Year. The shop is owned by entrepreneur and coffee aficionado Feather Meredith. She. The menu features custom label grinds and includes hot & cold beverage options, including teas, energy drinks, smoothies, and Italian sodas. You’ll also find local soaps, quirky gifts, and seasonal specials.

Cottontail Baby & Kids Resale joined its sister store Our Favorite Things Resale Shop this year. Owner Rishel Kidd is excited to offering new and gently used clothing, gifts, home décor, and more in a boutique-style shopping environment. There is also a small event space available for rent to hold parties, paint nights, yoga classes and more.

Cooper Studios has anchored the block for more than ten years. Owners Amy & Forest Cooper are active proponents for the downtown core who have worked behind the scenes to bring about big things like Shelton Neon Project and donated their time to ensure the longevity of traditions such as Halloween Trick-or-Treating with merchants.

At the Western end of the storefronts, the old City Hall stands proudly, appropriately housing the Mason County Historical Society & Museum. The museum shares the heritage of the region, free of charge, and plays host to artist receptions, rotating exhibits, and special collections.

As described in National Trust for Historic Preservation report, “All across America, blocks of older, smaller buildings are quietly contributing to robust local economies and distinctive livable communities. Buildings of diverse vintage and small scale provide flexible, affordable space for entrepreneurs launching new businesses and serve as attractive settings for new restaurants and locally owned shops. They offer diverse housing choices that attract younger residents and create human-scaled places for walking, shopping, and social interaction. These modest, often-overlooked buildings are irreplaceable assets for America’s new urban age.”

There are many creating authentic experiences downtown. Just look at Shelton Downtown Merchants, Shelton Farmers Market, local events and festivals hosted by organizations such as Forest Festival and Kristmastown Kiwanis, and the genius of Christmastown USA activities created by Northwest Event Organizers in cooperation with City of Shelton. Get out, take a walk, and be part of a new, dynamic downtown.

As the momentum builds and moves throughout downtown, the Chamber commits to continuing to work with its partners and local businesses to create a vibrant, thriving downtown. Learn more at masonchamber.com/downtown.