The Carroll Chamber of Commerce is beginning to create a task force to address growing concerns regarding economic viability in the community’s downtown shopping district and beyond. The former JCPenney building on the corner of 5th and Adams Streets has been vacant for nearly two years. With the recent announcement that Uptown Sporting Goods will close its doors in the coming weeks, Chamber Executive Director Kimberly Tiefenthaler says they are actively assembling a team to address the empty storefronts.
The decision to close the JCPenney in Carroll came from the company’s corporate office in 2020, but Uptown’s closure is largely the result of large suppliers like Nike, Adidas, and others being unwilling to do business with smaller retailers. Tiefenthaler says this is far from a new phenomenon, but it does appear that moves like this are becoming more frequent. She cites her experience in her and her husband’s business, Performance Tire & Service.
A specialist from the Iowa Economic Development Authority (IEDA) is scheduled to visit Carroll Thursday to survey the downtown and advise local economic leaders. While this work with businesses is critical, Tiefenthaler says continued consumer support is vital.
She adds input or ideas from the public are always welcome and encourages residents and business owners to contact the Chamber directly at 712-792-4383. The full interview with Tiefenthaler can be found included below.
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