Store Owner Looks Back as Change Comes to 'The Drag'

The stretch of Guadalupe Street along the UT campus known as "The Drag" is known for its variety of shops and restaurants. Many shops come and go, but TWC News' Alex Stockwell explains why one mainstay is closing down after nearly 40 years of service.

For the past 37 years, Manju's has been a popular shop along "The Drag" in Central Austin. But in three weeks, the womens clothing store will close.

City paperwork shows four properties along Guadalupe Street - including Manju's - are approved for demolition.

According to the Austin American Statesman, Urban Outiftters has ambitious plans to expand its location on "The Drag."

Store owner Kavita Sajnani says she had a feeling this day was coming.

"We knew for a while that they are doing something to the building, but we always thought we'd get a space in it. You know, like they'd probably do retail and something. But we found out in December that that's not going to happen," Sajnani said.

Three of the four properties slotted for demolition are currently vacant. Some say the expansion project will strip away some of The Drag's character.

"I just think that expanding Urban Outfitters would be unnecessary because it's already as a property it's already big," said Justinne Pineda, a UT freshman.

"In my opinion, it's gonna lose a little bit of culture if it's just centralized around one shop or one business then you're not gonna get the same experience walking down the Drag like the term is as you would with all these restaurants and different shops down here," said Samuel Poffenberger, a UT sophomore.

As for Manju's, everything must go before their March 21 closing date.

Sajnani does not have plans to relocate yet, but she says she would love the chance to open another store near campus.

"Right now, nothing is, but if something comes up, you will probably see me again," Sajnani said.