UTICA — The closure of two adjacent businesses in Bagg’s Square has opened the opportunity for renovations to begin.

The Compound, a former gourmet sandwich shop, and Peeper’s, a former adult entertainment club, have both closed, leaving vacancies in the popular downtown plaza that is also home to The Tailor and the Cook, Utica Coffee and Genesee Tower Apartments.

The Tailor and the Cook is also expected to vacate the plaza later this year and move into the former Children’s Museum building at 311 Main St.

According to Utica Mayor Robert Palmieri, significant renovations to the building that once housed Peepers will soon take place, which will include updates to retail spaces and apartments above the first floor.

The opportunity for the city and business owners to reestablish the plaza as a walkable, family-friendly destination comes as the city recently completed construction on additional free parking underneath the North Genesee Street bridge, connecting east and west Bagg’s Square.

“It is a historic area,” Palmieri said. “We have seen great success, and we’re starting to see more success now with the advent of parking. People love the architectural beauty of [Bagg’s Square].”