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Aaron’s closes, but Fifth’s future is bright
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del.icio.usA popular woman’s department store on Park Slope’s Fifth Avenue has closed — even as its owner is working to create a business improvement district along the strip.
Aaron’s closed in January after 40 years on Fifth Avenue near 17th Street.
“It was a wonderful business,” said Howard Mankin, son and grandson of the original owners. “It ran its course. Now it’s time to think about the best use for the property.”
Given the fact that he’s a real-estate developer, that “best use” is probably apartments, Mankin said.
“Eventually I’m going to put apartments in here,” Mankin said. “And I’m going to name the building after my parents.”
Until that happens, Mankin will subdivide the building for smaller tenants.
“It’s a unique chance for me to help change the area,” he said.
Peggy Gandrau, a local café owner, has taken a space in the building, planning to open up a wine bar, Vin Rouge, by next month.
She also believes that the loss of Aaron’s will be a long-term gain for the neighborhood.
“The neighborhood is very excited about the new businesses coming in,” Gandrau said.
The new spirit is embodied in Mankin and others’ call for a business improvement district running from Berkeley Place to 18th Street.
A BID will bring in more business to the area, said Jeremy Laufer, district manager of Community Board 7.
Once a BID is formed, local business owners will each pay an average of $485 annually for better sanitation, more trees, bike racks and yearly Christmas lights.
“I want to see more people walking the street at 8 pm,” Mankin said, who grew up in the neighborhood and vows never to leave.
Despite the bright future, Mankin does regret closing the store that his grandfather Ben and father David opened four decades ago.
“I’ve been coming here since I was 5,” Mankin said. “I put together garment boxes for my grandfather for a nickel a piece.”
©2007 The Brooklyn Paper
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