WBID survey spurs opening of shoe store

            WASHINGTON (Feb. 21, 2006) - When Bob Whitman heard that a Washington Business Improvement District (WBID) survey completed by residents indicated that a shoe store was one of their top wish list choices to come to town, he decided that it was time to expand his business.

            Whitman opened up Washington Shoe & Leather in Washington Borough some  14 years ago as a shoe and leather repair shop. He recently relocated his business to a much larger space across the street from his old spot, to 47 E. Washington Avenue (Route 57), where he not only continues to repair shoes and leather products, but he also sells brand new quality shoes and sneakers.

            “I had been thinking about expanding for a while,” said Whitman, a longtime Borough resident who has been in the shoe business for 38 years. “After I heard about the survey, I knew it was time.”

            “The survey made it very clear that residents wanted a shoe store in the business district,” confirmed Jim Sheldon, Executive Director of the WBID. “When Bob found out about it, he was very receptive to the idea of expanding.”  

            Among the shoe brands he now sells are Johnston & Murphy, Rockport and Bass.    “I realized long ago that if I did open a shoe store, I only wanted to carry the best,” said Whitman. “I like to think that I know something about quality shoes. I know that shoes should be made to last, not break down after a few months.”

            Whitman’s repair businesss is set up in the rear of his store, with plenty of space up front for new shoes, boots, sandals, and sneakers.

            “Who better to buy quality shoes from than somebody who takes them apart and puts them back together,” said Whitman.

            Washington Shoe & Leather is open six days a week (closed Sunday), with some night hours. Special appointments may also be scheduled. For further information about Washington Shoe & Leather, call 908-689-3762.