Fredericton businesses unite to navigate construction season challenges

Several Fredericton businesses, grappling with the disruptions of summer construction, have united in an innovative effort to bolster mutual support and guide customers to their establishments. Restaurants and small businesses located off Westmorland Street in New Brunswick's capital are already feeling the effects of road closures stemming from ongoing sewer upgrade projects. The construction has significantly limited through traffic for several months.

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First few days, we definitely did (see an impact). Sales were down at first.

"The first few days, we definitely did (see an impact). Sales were down at first," said Dee Silkie, co-owner of Scout's Original Sandwich Shop. Beyond accessibility issues, the construction zone has created an unpleasant atmosphere. "It was three or four days that they were actually doing the paving. We had no one on the patio because of the smell and the sound and the dust," recounted Kelly Grant, general manager of Rustico.

Instead of succumbing to the challenges, these affected businesses have banded together, creating what they call the "construction district." They are actively posting detour signs, sharing crucial parking information, and organizing raffles featuring prizes from neighboring businesses. "Cities have art districts, wine districts and music districts, so we were like, ‘Why don’t we be the construction district?’" Grant explained. "And really go with it, have fun with it, have logos, prizes and really bring the five of us together."

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It was three or four days that they were actually doing the paving. We had no one on the patio because of the smell and the sound and the dust.

Silkie highlighted the attractive prizes available, including stays at The Hollows cabins and golf packages. Adam Peabody, executive director of Downtown Fredericton Inc., praised the businesses' initiative. "I applaud the efforts that these businesses have taken with the district. They are trying to turn lemons into lemonade with these various initiatives, and they’re taking an added step in supporting each other and drive business their way," he stated. Silkie added that their strategies will be shared with future businesses facing similar construction impacts, providing them a valuable head start.

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Cities have art districts, wine districts and music districts, so we were like, ‘Why don’t we be the construction district?’ And really go with it, have fun with it, have logos, prizes and really bring the five of us together.

Construction on Westmorland Street is anticipated to continue through October.

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I applaud the efforts that these businesses have taken with the district. They are trying to turn lemons into lemonade with these various initiatives, and they’re taking an added step in supporting each other and drive business their way.