A New Place to Gather in Downtown Erie
Changes to commercial real estate in a post-pandemic world remain a mystery. But that doesn’t stop experts from speculating what irreversible trends are on the horizon. One frequently discussed possibility is the way some types of real estate—large offices, shopping malls, and more—will be repurposed for new, perhaps unexpected uses.
The new tenant at 515 Briggs makes this case. This month, Market Real Estate signed a lease with The Ashworth Team, a real estate team with Compass led by Tony Ashworth. The Ashworth Team leased a 1,200 SF office/retail space in the heart of downtown Erie with plans to use it for his growing real estate business, a local non-profit, and for community events.
Three years ago, Tony and his wife felt led to make a change and that calling landed them in Erie, Colorado. While Tony had practiced real estate for over two decades, he had never practiced in the state of Colorado. He established a team and within three years, the team needed their own space.
“My real estate team is growing and needs space,” said Tony. “We also saw the need for an event space in Erie. People need a space to connect with others. Erie is lacking that resource.”
Erie, one of the fastest growing towns on the Colorado Front Range, is trying to keep up with itself. With a projected annual growth rate of 4.6% by 2023 and a concentration of new builders in the area, the downtown commercial district is transforming as well. 515 Briggs will certainly be instrumental in the ongoing effort to cultivate a business and culture center for the town.
Speaking of culture, Tony and his team also support a non-profit, The Circle Room, a faith-based non-profit supporting families with special needs children. The Circle Room will establish a physical presence at 515 Briggs and eventually offer a safe place for special needs children and their families, with sensory rooms, daycare areas, and space to accommodate events, meetups, and more.
515 Briggs is one example of the creative ways commercial buildings can serve multiple purposes and facilitate collaboration. Market Real Estate enjoyed representing with the tenants of 515 Briggs to sign a sublease with Tony and his team. More importantly, we are excited to see what happens in this next phase of downtown Erie.
“Come have a cup of coffee, come have a glass of wine, come have an event with us,” said Tony. “We will be here.”
Coming!