LEWISTON —  Rainbow Bicycle and Fitness, an independent bicycle shop, officially celebrated the grand opening of its new downtown location Wednesday.

Established in 1982, owner John Grenier purchased Rainbow Bicycle in 1998 and recently made the transition from the busy outer Center Street corridor in Auburn to the new Lewiston space in mid-November.

“I think the downtown is still in the early stages of a massive revitalization,” Grenier said. “There’s a huge amount of positive energy here. We wanted to be a leader rather than a follower and the support from the other businesses here along Lisbon Street has made all the difference in our decision.”  

The downtown venue at 97 Lisbon St. has seen a number of businesses throughout the years. Perhaps best known as the Reid and Hughes Department store from 1953 to 1982, Music Works occupied the space until 1989 before moving to Auburn, and Drapeau’s Costumes of Maine had set up shop there through 2007. 

“I think what you see here is a tone being set in the community,” said Chip Morrison, president of the Androscoggin County Chamber of Commerce. “Imagine the years of neglect and damage that existed in this space until just recently. As this business continues to expand, what you see here is a commitment and an investment into this community for the long haul.”

In addition, the Local Grind Cafe — also owned by Grenier and which shares space with the bike shop — features free wireless Internet for customers, Maine roasted coffee from Wicked Joe’s based out of Brunswick, baked goods and other light snacks. Future plans call for wraps, soups and sandwiches in the coming months.

Actively involved in promoting all aspects of cycling from local bike rodeos and charity rides to professional level racing events, the owner and employees of Rainbow Bicycle coordinate mechanical support for the Dempsey Challenge, the Trek Across Maine, and Optimist Club Bike Rodeo. Founders of the Maine Cycling Club, Lake Auburn Road Race and many other cycling events in the Central Maine area, they also serve as the primary organizer for Downeast Cyclocross Weekend.

Rainbow Bicycle and Fitness is open Monday through Friday from 9:30 a.m. until 6 p.m., and Saturday from 9:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. For more information about services or to schedule an appointment, call (207) 784-5533, email [email protected], or go to www.Rainbowbike.com.