Fades for Freeport: 2nd Willy T's Cuts barbershop set to open in borough's downtown

After a decade spent building a loyal customer base in Tarentum, William Tavarez said he’s planning to open a second location of his Willy T’s Cuts barbershop in downtown Freeport.

The shop, at 512 High St., will cater to some of Tavarez’s existing customers, many of whom come from the Freeport area, and expand the business into the upper Allegheny Valley, he said.

It was not originally Tavarez’s plan to operate multiple locations, but when the opportunity presented itself, he seized it.

Though he doesn’t have a firm opening date in mind, the new location is expected to be open by the end of summer.

In the beginning, Tavarez plans to spend much of his time at the Freeport location. But as things progress, he’ll likely hire some new barbers to fill out his staff.

“It’s pretty cool; that’s what it’s all about it,” he said.

At his Tarentum shop, Tavarez said, he tries to conjure “good vibes” and a “family atmosphere,” while catering to all customers.

Karen Heilman, co-owner of Freeport’s 1833 Coffee and Tea Co., is thrilled to have a new business across the street from her in the small borough.

The new Willy T’s Cuts, she said, will “only add to Freeport.”

Heilman said the building, set in the former location of Freeport Floral and Gift, is a “beautiful space.”