"This is the only mall in Topeka" - Local business owner ecstatic to see West Ridge resurgence

TOPEKA (KSNT) - The saying "a rising tide lifts all boats" is especially true for a group of local businesses.

The recent resurgence of Topeka's West Ridge Mall is making a big difference for workers who have called the building home for years.

Mauricio Martinez is one business owner who's seen firsthand the highs and lows of West Ridge.

He became the owner of Teriyaki Gourmet back in 2020, right as a global pandemic ravaged public spaces, especially malls.

Today though, it's a different story.

Martinez says when he first started, he'd see about 200 people on any given day. Now, they're seeing about three times the traffic.

That's made a big difference for Teriyaki Gourmet, with 34% more business in February alone compared to last year.

He has an encouraging message for other business owners to take a chance on the West Topeka mall.

"Help the mall to open more stores, to stay alive, because this is the only mall in Topeka," Martinez said. "You don't want to have to go drive to Overland Park or Manhattan. And they'll probably work on the rent, because now they're reasonable - the rent is reasonable."

West Ridge has grown a lot in recent months since its purchase by Advisors Excel. Recent additions include Ta Co. and Boxer Q BBQ for dining options, and new businesses like Absolute Tattoo opening in February and Shockwave Fitness beginning classes in March.