A few months ago, Bootyland moved out of its store at 1317 E Pine citing a steep increase in rent. The children’s clothing store will be replaced by Eye Eye, a new optometry clinic and eyewear store. In addition to possibly providing you with a fashionable set of frames and better vision, the change provides some small amount of insight into the retail lease market around Capitol Hill and, specifically, in Pike/Pine.

“The rent is not cheap, but I still see it as a good opportunity,” says Will Pentecost, the man behind Eye Eye. Originally from Tennessee, Pentecost is an optometrist who moved to Seattle in 2008.  For the past several years he has been practicing out of an optical shop in Columbia City and is excited about starting his own practice on Capitol Hill where he has lived since 2009.

Pentecost said his business will work to be socially responsible by making making eye care more affordable for those without insurance. Uninsured customers will  have the option of signing-up for a monthly low fee  membership plan that will give them a  “significant discount” on eyeglasses, Pentecost told CHS.  People enrolled in Washington’s Medicaid program will receive free membership.

When it opens, Eye Eye will sell items such as luxury vintage eye frames and eyewear from independent and green-friendly companies. Customers will also receive what Pentecost says will be quicker service thanks to an on-site finishing lab.

Currently Eye Eye’s space is undergoing a complete renovation by Best Practice Architecture and Design. It is scheduled to open by August. Bootyland has since reopened in Wallingford.