S4 E11: The South Street Renaissance: How NYS DRI & Private Investment are Transforming Glens Falls

Ann Donnelly on August 19, 2026

Host: Ann Donnelly

Featured Audio Interviews:

  • Kara Magoolaghan, Co-Owner, Hometown Shop
  • MeLinda Stanley, Owner, Tease Salon and Beauty Bar
  • Ali Gazetus Mineo, Owner, Floro’s Mercantile
  • Jim Siplon, President & CEO, Warren County EDC (From Episode 10)

With Additional Insights From:

  • Katy Foster, Co-Owner, Katy’s Wine & Whiskey Bar
  • Judd Gershen, Owner, Judd’s Tavern

Episode Overview

What happens when ambitious private investment leverages the momentum of a $10M New York State DRI initiative? Look no further than the newly revitalized 46-56 South Street block in Downtown Glens Falls. Just a year ago, this block was defined by chain-link fences and vacant windows. Today, thanks to developer Chris Patten and a wave of young entrepreneurs, it is a self-sustaining micro-economy.

In Episode 11 of Building Success Stories, host Ann Donnelly takes you on a walking tour of the city’s fastest-growing business hub. We explore how five distinct businesses—ranging from upscale dining and vintage retail to beauty and a neighborhood tavern—are working together to create a thriving ecosystem for the city’s newest residents. Discover the exact blueprint for Upstate New York’s revitalization.

(Note: The interviews featured in this episode were conducted on assignment for the Glens Falls Business Journal).

Key Takeaways

  • The Power of Synergy: Economic revitalization accelerates when strategic private developers build upon the momentum of public initiatives like the NYS Downtown Revitalization Initiative (DRI).
  • The Youth Movement: Despite Warren County’s average age nearing 50, the entrepreneurs driving South Street’s rebirth are a dynamic wave of business owners under 40, injecting fresh energy and modern retail concepts into the city.
  • Ecosystem Economics: By clustering complimentary businesses (food, drinks, apparel, home goods, and beauty) on a single block, these owners are creating a self-sustaining destination that instantly services the incoming residents of the new 70-unit South Street Apartments.
  • Honoring the Past to Build the Future: True community development honors local history. Businesses like Floro’s Mercantile are proving you can build modern, trendy brands while respecting the century-old footprints of the family businesses that came before them.

More Information

Explore the South Street Businesses:

  • Katy’s Wine & Whiskey Bar (46 South St): Website | Facebook | Instagram
  • Hometown Shop (48 South St): Stop in for vintage goods, high-quality paints, and community crafting events.
  • Tease Salon and Beauty Bar (50 South St): Visit MeLinda and her team for a full range of hair and beauty services.
  • Floro’s Mercantile (52 South St): Shop a curated mix of timeless basics and luxury handbags.
  • Judd’s Tavern (54 South St): Website | Facebook

Read the Full Feature in the Glens Falls Business Journal.

More from Ann Donnelly:

Ann Donnelly Business Growth Strategist

Building Success Stories podcast & articles

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