Businesses feeling the pinch as new stretch of ION construction in Downtown Kitchener begins
Posted Apr 27, 2016 04:29:02 PM.
Last Updated Apr 27, 2016 04:45:14 PM.
This article is more than 5 years old.
Taking a drive in downtown Kitchener just got a bit more challenging.
A stretch of King Street from Victoria to Water Street is affected by ION construction which is expected to last four months.
The actual closure is on Francis Street between King and Duke Street, but there is no through traffic on King Street from Victoria to Water Street.
The work began over the weekend, but already local businesses say they have felt the effect.
Drew Edward Butterworth is a co-owner at Good Vibes Juices and says they have already seen a 30- 50 per cent decrease in customers.
Scott Hunter is the owner of the KW Bookstore and also says less people are stopping in.
” Less walk in traffic that’s for sure, and I think for some of my dedicated customers, they have to drive around a block or two or to find access they just won’t come,” says Hunter.
Both Good Vibes Juice Company and the KW Bookstore are confident they can sustain the four months of construction– but it won’t be easy.
Butterworth also added that Good Vibes is looking to do something creative to help boost business to all those affected by the construction.
“We actually want to take advantage of the road being closed and do a block party. So rather than just focus on our business, we can focus on all the businesses that are being impacted by this and make the best of an otherwise challenging situation. ”
The City of Kitchener and local businesses owners are reminding us all that local traffic and parking is still available between Water Street and Francis.
