A vacant space along Bridgeport’s Main Street corridor didn’t stay vacant too long as a new business is occupying some of the square footage. The space in question previously housed part of Smokin’ Bear BBQ has a new business.

 

According to the developer and owner of the building Jason Underwood, the new occupant of part of the space will be himself. Underwood said that he is occupying nearly 1,300 square feet of space for his contracting business Underwood General Builders.

 

“I decided that it was time to open my own office instead of having to meet people at my home and occasionally trying to do business out of my house,” said Underwood. “I have a home office so doing work there isn’t necessarily a problem, but when you have to meet with two or three people and you have blueprints involved it can become a bit of a chore.”

 

The space will be occupied, but it won’t have a full-time presence. Underwood said there will likely be two individuals – including himself – utilizing the space and those meeting with staff will do so by appointment only.

 

“This will allow me to avoid taking work home with me because I won’t be doing some of the things I generally do at home there any longer,” said Underwood.

 

Underwood General Contractors has been in business for several years. Underwood said they handle just about any type of residential and commercial construction; mainly new construction.

 

The sign that went up on the building has generated some interest from the public as to what is going into the building. Underwood said he wasn’t surprised because when he built the site, which is also home to Peak Capital Group, he knew it was a good location due to the amount of traffic.

 

Ironically, most of the remaining space that was once occupied by Smokin’ Bear BBQ, which went out of business in late July of 2018, will also soon have a new business. Underwood said another entity is in the process of taking up the majority of the remaining space. He said the business in question will utilize roughly 1,500 square feet of space.

 

“It’s still a good location for business because there’s just so much exposure. The odd thing, for me, is that I’m opening up there and I’ve never advertised and went by word of mouth,” said Underwood. “I feel good about being there, but maybe this will give me additional exposure as well.

 

Underwood said they are currently working out of the space but are waiting for furniture and other items to arrive. Anyone wishing to set up an appointment can do so by calling 304-848-9868.

 

Editor's Note: Top photo shows the new business sign that can be seen along East Main Street, while the building permit that's in the window is also shown.