Ongoing construction on Dort Highway and Court Street in Flint, initiated by the Michigan Department of Transportation in late April, is causing significant business disruption for JW's Music Factory. The project, aimed at replacing a culvert, has blocked traffic at the intersection all summer and is now expected to be completed by late November. Manager Larenzo Bradford reports a drastic decline in foot traffic and business, with weekends feeling like slow weekdays. The bar's parking lot has been damaged by vehicles circumventing the construction, leading to deep potholes that the bar cannot afford to repair. Bradford expresses concern for patrons' vehicles and the overall impact on business [9ae9bf53].
The construction project has not only affected JW's Music Factory but has also raised concerns among other local businesses in the area. Many establishments are reporting similar declines in customer visits and revenue, as the blockage of the main intersection has deterred potential patrons. Local business owners are calling for better communication from the Michigan Department of Transportation regarding the timeline and progress of the construction, as well as for assistance in mitigating the impact on their operations [9ae9bf53].
As the construction continues, community members are encouraged to support local businesses like JW's Music Factory by visiting and utilizing available services. The hope is that once the construction is completed, traffic flow will improve, and business can return to normal levels [9ae9bf53].