By Marshall Collins

Union Square’s small businesses are enjoying increased attention lately, from established spots like Machu Picchu Restaurant to more recent arrivals like Union Square Donuts – not to mention an entirely new small business marketplace on Bow Street.

Residents and business owners already know much of what Union Square has to offer – arts, culture, music, artisanal foods, ethnic restaurants, a vibrant community and a strong identity. Somerville has always been innovative (it’s the birthplace of Fluff!) and independent (it was the first to raise the U.S. flag!). but more and more visitors and residents are coming out to taste, shop and explore all that Union Square has to offer.

And, once the long-awaited Green Line Extension (GLX) project is complete, even more people will have access to all that Union Square’s small businesses have to offer. The developers behind the revitalization planned for Union Square in tandem with GLX also say they aim to create an urban employment district where entrepreneurs and startups can grow and the innovation economy can expand. As in: office, lab and research space to house technology, biotech and life sciences companies, as well as spaces for artists.

For years, Union Square and its associated businesses have been described as “up and coming.” But with GLX and the $1.5 billion mixed-use development currently in the planning stages, the neighborhood may no longer be considered up-and-coming and actually be here.

That’s due in part to the sheer numbers of public transportation investment: every $10 million in operating investment in public transportation yields $30 million in increased business sales. It’s estimated that GLX will bring more than 9,000 people a day to Union Square, resulting in more daytime traffic and introducing more patrons to local businesses.

On top of that, the mix of commercial and residential uses slated for USQ could activate Union Square during work hours and in the evenings, bringing even new spending to local businesses. Folks who previously saw their shops and restaurants busy only for weekday dinners and on the weekends may see lunch rushes and workday shopping stops increase their revenue.

The combination of GLX and the revitalization of the square could even solidify Union Square’s role as a new regional hub for biotech businesses, artists and entrepreneurs alike. In other words, Union Square’s small businesses may have much to look forward to as both projects move forward.