When hand sanitizer was in short supply, Snohomish’s Skip Rock Distillers produced enough to be distributed throughout the downtown business district. When masks were needed, owners of the local fabric and quilting stores got to work.
“Main-street businesses have thrived in the City of Snohomish for 130 years because of our small-town spirit and sense of community,” said Mayor John Kartak. “We help each other and we are ready for a great re-opening.”
With help from the City and the Historic Downtown Snohomish Association (HDSA), businesses got answers to their questions and are using a common approach to show customers that they are able to shop, dine, and drink safely in one of “the coolest small towns in America.”
“Our small businesses are determined to make up for lost time,” said HDSA Executive Director Terry Schuler. “So we developed and shared a plan that will help them re-open and stay open.”
“Shop Safe Snohomish” includes operating protocols and information so merchants and restaurants follow consistent guidelines to help keep customers and workers safe.
Lori Warren, owner of Remember When Antique Mall, said she wants to make sure her customers feel safe while they search for treasures.
“I’m moving some display cases, improving the air circulation, and cleaning like crazy,” said Warren. “My employees and I will all wear masks and we’ll keep an eye on how many customers are in the store at once.”
In addition to those operating guidelines, common signage will help businesses show their customers what to expect and what they need to do, including wearing a mask if advised.
“Bring your mask, or buy one here,” said Schuler. “We have several shops selling hand-crafted masks from beautiful fabrics, including matching styles in adult and child sizes.”
Until inside dining and retail re-opens, customers can shop online at Virtual Snohomish.
For more information, contact Wendy Poischbeg, Economic Development and Communications Manager at poischbeg@snohomishwa.gov or (360) 282-3176.
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