Construction in Sugar House Impacts Local Businesses
Ongoing construction on major routes in Salt Lake City’s Sugar House district is having a negative effect on local businesses such as Quarters Arcade Bar, Sugar House Coffee, and Tea Zaanti.
The establishments have reported a significant decrease in foot traffic leading to financial strain. Parking has become a significant issue due to the limited spaces available because of the construction work. Quarters Arcade Bar has seen a substantial decrease in its evening crowds. Both Sugar House Coffee and Tea Zaanti are struggling during their peak hour sales.
Owners Katy Willis of Quarters Arcade Bar, and Emily Potts of Sugar House Coffee, have reported that their regular business operations have been disrupted by the infrastructural developments on 2100 South and 1100 East.
Construction impacts on Sugar House businesses
Increased noise and dust, coupled with reduced parking options, have deterred customers from frequenting the establishments.
Tea Zaanti co-owner, Scott Lyttle, has noticed that the decrease in footfall is more prominent during weekdays, but tends to recover over the weekends. He concludes that this suggests people avoid the area during peak construction times, which impacts both new and returning customers.
The Locker Room, a local LGBTQ sports bar, is concerned about the impact of construction on their Sugar House Pride event planned for June. They are worried that unfinished construction might inconvenience their patrons and affect the success of the event.
Despite the issues faced by businesses, city authorities have been keeping an open line of communication about the construction activities. Public engagement in-charge, Leah Jaramillo, asserts that the aim of the project is to enhance roadways and improve accessibility for various forms of travel.
However, despite the promise of improved infrastructure in the future, the inconvenience caused by the construction cannot be undermined. Local businesses continue to struggle with the immediate negative effects of the ongoing roadwork and noise pollution.
Hence, it’s crucial to find a balance that allows for progress without stifling local commercial interests.
