The tight-knit family of small businesses in the Shoppes of Port Washington may soon be torn apart.

But after last week's long-anticipated sale of the Lueptow building, 211 N. Franklin St., business owners there are optimistic about finding a new downtown location to keep their clientele.

The Ozaukee Press reported Wednesday that Morgan Stanley executive and Port native Daniel Ewig plans to purchase and restore the building to its early 20th century state. While this may help efforts to revive Port's downtown area, the Shoppes businesses will soon be out of a storefront.

Jane Guetchidjian, owner of Alterations by Jane and manager for the Shoppes, said they knew this would eventually happen, as there was a for sale sign on the building when they moved in.

"I've been in business for 40 years, and this wouldn't be the first time. This is progress, I guess," she said with a chuckle.

"I have a clientele built up, and so do the others," Guetchidjian said. "We're testing the waters for us relocating in the downtown area if we can."

She, along with Mrs. Spyder's Biker Patch owner Brian Schowalter, are happy that city officials are assisting them with relocation and even giving them a chance to stay together in their future spaces.

"We've become kind of a family, so it's hard to break us up now," Schowalter said, adding that he appreciates the help from Port Washington Main Street Inc.'s Sara Grover.

Grover said there is definitely "adequate" space for the businesses to relocate downtown, but whether they do so will depend on their requirements and rent budgets.

Grover will also help to recruit new businesses to occupy the restored building, which will include high-end office, retail and restaurant space.