Read this story in the Tribune about boutique stores and how they fit into the Downtown retail scene. That's obviously worked in other places like Walnut Street in Shadyside and Murray Avenue in Squirrel Hill. Would it work Downtown?
Obviously the parking issue is big. Then there's the matter of whether stores would be clustered to create a zone of boutiques. I don't think it works if there's one boutique amid the usual clutter of fast food places and office buildings.
The obvious market for Downtown business is people who work in the area, and those who live Downtown, once that gets up and running. Is it enough to sustain a business? We know that Downtown can't simply duplicate what people get in malls that offer free parking and a multitude of stores under one roof.
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One issue to consider is the distance people commute. As they move physically further away, even a clear I-279 wouldn’t help them feel comfortable staying downtown to shop. Physical distance means a longer commute, no matter how clear the roads are (and when are they clear?). Another issue is that the internet has made non-clothing specialty boutique items available to everyone from the comfort of their couch or bathroom (wirelessly). The presence of Brooks Brothers, Jos Banks and Saks downtown for business shoppers helps, but there are a few of those particular stores scattered around the suburban malls for those who don’t want to come to town. Really, it is a diminishing market of those who want to touch their purchases before they make them, and can’t imagine a place in the malls that has what they need.
I think the boutiques will be a better fit once there is a significant residential component downtown. Based on the prices, the downtown residents will be affluent and likely to enjoy an experience like Walnut Avenue. The boutiques could also draw some business from downtown workers. But as Ed says, there won't be a lot of people coming in from the suburbs.
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