'For us it's very bad,' Kingsbridge businesses suffer as construction on Broadway continues
A 13-block stretch between West 225th and 238th streets has been filled with noise, barricades and blocked-off sidewalks as the MTA continues work on long-term infrastructure improvements.
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Construction along a major stretch of Broadway in Kingsbridge is taking a toll on local businesses, where owners say customers are disappearing and sales have dropped to their lowest levels in decades.
A 13-block stretch between West 225th and 238th streets has been filled with noise, barricades and blocked-off sidewalks as the MTA continues work on long-term infrastructure improvements. Business owners say the disruption has left them struggling to stay afloat.
“It’s tough for us,” said Elias Kostas, manager of Gold Mine Café. “A lot of people complain they can’t come in because there’s no parking outside.”
Kostas said that before construction began a few months ago, his café’s stools were always filled with customers. Now, he’s been forced to cut staff as revenue declines.
“We had to let some people go,” he said. “If there’s no business, how are we going to pay people?”
Community Board 8 says it is working with businesses along the corridor to help them survive the construction period.
“Activities, closing down the street for events—it brings people out so they can see we’re here and what we have to offer,” said Constance Barnes, a board member.
The board is also holding meetings with business owners to learn what resources they need to stay open as construction continues into the near future.
In a statement, the MTA said: “This structure hasn't been painted in decades and thanks to the MTA construction team’s innovations, crews won't need to do this again until the 2050s. The MTA has met with local businesses and Community Boards to ensure everyone has the information they need to navigate this project smoothly.”
“These businesses are open—please support them,” Barnes said.
As the sound of construction continues to echo through Broadway, business owners say they’re hoping the finish line comes sooner rather than later.
