Station 22 serves up a sense of community

If you ask Richard Gregory, Provo is disconnected from it’s youth.

“[This city] has been dead, there is no life out here,” said Richard Gregory. “I’m from Wine Country, we’re accustomed to socializing. Outside of the LDS Church there are no venues to meet people here. Where can you go and network if the one or two bars doesn’t suit you? Well, you’re stuck.”

Because of this disconnected feeling in Provo, Gregory thinks that a casual place where young people can hang out is vital in bringing the community together.

For the past seven years Gregory has been the proud owner of Provo Towne Square in the center of downtown Provo. According to Richard Gregory the success of his job as owner is dependant on whether or not his tenants’ businesses are successful.

Two years ago he moved to Utah to better manage his properties after the economy in Napa Valley California began to hurt his architecture business.

Remodeling began in January and finished within 6 weeks for Station 22. The venue, named after its address, 22 W. Center Street and “reflection of the community trends.”

“The purpose was to have a theme that resonated with the city. An old style diner with a modern touch, we were shooting for something Tom Waits-esque,” said Gregory.

With so many plans still in the works Gregory was willing to provide some information of other business he is hoping to open, but was unable to give much information.

“We are going to be opening a little café and bakery shop. It will give that café style feeling in the morning then we plan to keep it open until late evening serving rich deserts on vintage furniture. Providing a laidback date night environment. There is also The Under Ground, which will have a 1930 speak easy theme, found in the basement of 65 N. University Ave. With a stage, this venue will be meant for private events,” said Gregory.

Having launched himself into working with the community as a member of the Provo City Art Council, Cultural Identity, and providing the space for The Rooftop Concerts, Gregory is trying his best to accommodate the businesses and artists of the community.

“I’m involved with the City Art Council, providing a much needed contemporary spin. I am there to add a modern feeling that should help these conservatives who are of older generations to understand what young folks want,” said Gregory.  “Provo is in gear with the fine arts, which is great, but there is a market I am helping this council target.”