Author: Stephanie Joyce
Money concerns can strain even the healthiest of relationships and the relationship between the town and the College has never been tension-free. When the College opened 51 Main at the Bridge last year, it took an unprecedented step toward competing with local business and potentially angering the owners of several downtown establishments. In order to avoid conflict, the College decided to only open the space on weekends and for limited hours. The current financial crisis, however, has called into question the wisdom of this decision, prompting changes to which some local businesses are opposed.
Starting in February, 51 Main will be expanding its business hours and menu in order to attract customers and generate more revenue. In addition to the evening bar/lounge aspect, 51 Main will be opening earlier to serve coffee and cupcakes and may expand lunch and dinner menus. Acting Provost Tim Spears explained this transition as the need to "fish or cut bait," suggesting that "[the College] is not in a position financially to sustain [51 Main] as it is currently constituted."
John Melanson, owner of Carol's Hungry Mind Caf
Future of 51 Main in flux
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