Some business down due to Wyandotte construction, owners say
Some business owners on Windsor's Wyandotte Street East say despite future benefits the construction project is hurting them now.
"We've lost 70 per cent of our walk-ins," said Sonya Klue, who moved her home-based business, now known as Klueless Cupcakes, to Walkerville a little more than a year ago.
She didn't realize the street was slated for construction, and now it's caused such a significant reduction in business she's considering an accountant to crunch the numbers.
"If you don't stay positive for me, I might end up making some sour cupcakes, and I don't want that," said Klue.
The construction project has Wyandotte between Gladstone Avenue to Argyle Road ripped up and fenced in. The city is installing new sewers and water mains, but there will also be wider sidewalks, benches and flower planters.
Vito's Restuarant opened a new back yard patio on the weekend, and owner Vito Maggio said this was his business plan to combat the construction in the front.
"Obviously to make it a little bit easier for customers to come in through the back," he said.
Maggio said business is down slightly, but loyal customers still come.
Lindsay Gammon, with the Walkerville Business Improvement Association, hopes owners remain positive.
"Definitely has put a little bit of a damper on sales, but we're looking forward now that we see the end, now that our sidewalks are all in place, people can get to us so easily that they'll start coming around again," said Gammon.
Meanwhile, Klue said it's a great area and hopes her move is still worth it.
The construction company in charge of the project said work is on schedule and streets are expected to
re-open at the end of October.
