Streetscaping and curbside gardens aren't the only new things in Shorewood this summer. Area residents are taking up new occupations and opportunities with the addition of several locally-owned businesses on East Capitol Drive.

In the small strip mall just east of the Capitol Drive / Oakland Avenue intersection, you'll find a few fresh ideas intermixed with some neighborhood standbys. With options for smoothies, bicycles and shopping just a walk away, the new goods arrive in perfect time for summer sales.

SHOP, a womens' clothing boutique at 1918 E. Capitol Dr., opened last October with classic style. SHOP owners Liz and Mary LeBlanc appeal to women 15 to 85 and bring trendy East and West Coast styles to a locally chic clientele.

Only two doors down at 1922 E. Capitol Dr., Northshore Wheels: A Bicycle Place, owned by Jeff Swanson of City Market, solely conducted online sales until earlier this year when it moved into this small Shorewood space. Although the shop specializes in custom and recumbent bicycles, they are ultimately the ideal local bike tech offering personalized service, bike sales and riding recommendations.

And just one storefront over at 1924 E. Capitol Dr., you'll find Café Nation Smoothie Nation, a counter-style stop for fruit smoothies and roasted coffee. Doug Podzilini opened this walk-up only café last May to feature Ghirardelli coffees, Maui smoothies and Silk soy milk.