On Commodores and Humidors

Gresei/Adobe Stock

The word on State Street about the construction in Downtown Erie? Close, but no cigar.

Until now. The Erie Downtown Development Corporation (EDDC) recently revealed that The Brig Cigar Lounge is setting up shop on the third floor at 419 State St., just a torpedo's blow away from the neighboring Cashier's House and nearby Shops at Fifth & State. 

The business will feature premium cigars and pipe tobacco (stored within a walk-in humidor), a lounge, private locker rentals, conference and event space, billiards tables, televisions and even a small barbershop. 

Stakeholders are eager for the project to wrap up. "We are thrilled to be adding The Brig Cigar Lounge to the EDDC's great roster of retail tenants," said John Persinger, CEO of the EDDC. "The Brig's management team brings decades of experience in the premium cigar industry, ensuring that the lounge becomes a high-quality, must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike."

At the head of that is managing partner Josh Habursky, who says of his concept: "This is a unique opportunity to bring world-class premium cigars and a first-rate experience to Downtown Erie. the Brig will not only be a destination for adults in the Erie community, but also a tourist attraction for visitors."

The Brig is slated to open in late summer or early fall, tentatively around the 209th anniversary of The Battle of Lake Erie (September 10). So put that in your pipe and smoke it.

Matt Swanseger (mswanseger@eriereader.com), a non-smoker, is a little choked up right now (if only because Downtown Erie is growing up before his very eyes).