Robert Sorenson, owner of Bobby Beads, is closely watching the construction crews at work on a crucial corridor in Minneapolis’ Uptown area. He has never experienced a reconstruction project of this intensity before, but he is relieved to note that the impact on his business has not been as severe as he had feared before construction began. In fact, the store has received more customers than expected, which is a positive outcome. However, customers have mentioned that they had to walk several blocks to get to the store due to road closures caused by the construction.
Next door at La Bodega Taco Bar, owner Alex Rosario shares that sales have dropped significantly since construction began. Delivery drivers have also canceled orders due to the difficulty of navigating the construction zone. Rosario worries about how this will affect businesses in Uptown in the long term.
On the other hand, Dale Lee, owner of Uncommon Grounds Coffee House, notes that their business has been steady despite the construction. Although hours have changed for customers and there have been some inconveniences, Lee sees the project as a short-term inconvenience for long-term benefits for the neighborhood. He believes that once completed, the area will look modern and attractive, enhancing property values in the neighborhood. The project is still in its early stages, with construction set to continue north on Hennepin Avenue between 26th and Douglas Avenue in 2025.