MONTGOMERY, AL March, 25 2026— The City of Montgomery’s Economic Development Department recently hosted its first Happy Hour Real Estate Walk, an initiative designed to connect entrepreneurs and developers with downtown property owners and brokers offering spaces for lease.
Held on March 12 in the Main Street Montgomery district, the walking tour served as a matchmaking opportunity, bringing together those seeking commercial space with those offering it. Participants explored several available properties suitable for restaurants, retail, and office use while engaging directly with property representatives and city partners.
“One of the biggest barriers for entrepreneurs and developers is simply knowing what spaces are available and who to talk to,” said Lois Cortell, Development Director for the City of Montgomery. “The Happy Hour Real Estate Walk helps bridge that gap. By bringing together those who want to invest in Montgomery with those who have spaces ready for lease, we’re creating connections that build real momentum for downtown.”
The event created an informal yet purposeful environment where prospective tenants could see spaces in person, ask questions, and better understand the possibilities for launching or expanding a business in downtown Montgomery.
“I really enjoyed this,” said E. Lee Willcoxon, a participant from Willcoxon Properties. “Even though I live here in Montgomery and I’m in the commercial real estate business, I still did not realize every single place that we went to today. There were so many opportunities for businesses. I felt like it was a very well-planned event, and it was very eye-opening.”
During the tour, attendees also received information about services provided by the Small Business One Stop Shop (SBOSS) and the Downtown Montgomery Ambassador Program, both of which offer resources designed to support businesses as they establish and grow in the city’s urban core.
“It’s a very good idea and a very good event to get people looking at some of the properties downtown that are available for future development,” said Paul Hodges, a broker with Hodges Commercial Real Estate. “There’s a need and there’s also plenty of inventory, and I think it was good to get the exposure out there.”
By bringing property owners, developers, and entrepreneurs together in a hands-on setting, the initiative helps generate momentum for continued investment while supporting a vibrant, walkable, and economically active Montgomery.
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