Uptown Businesses Navigate Construction Challenges and Opportunities

Robert Sorenson, owner of Bobby Beads in Minneapolis, is watching the construction crews work tirelessly on a crucial corridor for dozens of Uptown businesses. This project has been intense, and he admits that it’s unlike any other reconstruction he’s experienced before. Despite his initial concerns, Sorenson is pleased to report that the impact on his business has not been as bad as he feared it would be before construction began.

Sorenson notes that his business has actually received more customers than expected during this period. However, customers have also mentioned that they had to walk several blocks to get to the store due to road closures caused by the construction. The effects of this project are unpredictable and depend on the day and weather conditions.

Alex Rosario, owner of La Bodega Taco Bar next door, shares a different story. Sales at his restaurant are half what they were before construction started, and delivery drivers have canceled orders due to the difficulties in navigating the construction zone. Rosario expresses concern about how this will affect businesses in Uptown in the long run.

In contrast, Uncommon Grounds Coffee House owner Dale Lee reports that their business has remained steady despite the construction. Although customers have had to adjust their hours due to changes brought about by the project, Lee sees it as a short-term inconvenience for long-term benefits for the neighborhood. He believes that once completed, this project will make the area look modern and attractive, enhancing its properties overall. The current phase of construction will continue north on Hennepin Avenue until 2025 between 26th and Douglas Ave.

The ongoing construction in Uptown is causing both challenges and opportunities for local businesses. While some businesses are struggling with reduced sales and logistical issues due to road closures and delivery difficulties, others see it as an opportunity for growth and improvement in the long run. As this project continues, we can expect to see both positive and negative impacts on businesses in Uptown over time.