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Β Cornelius, NC — Small businesses off Interstate 77 at exit 28 are desperate for a break this Small Business Saturday.
The construction on the diverging diamond interchange left traffic so backed up at some points during the year that businesses were left barely holding on.Β
“It was frustration,” said Shannon Smith. “We just prayed that they would come back, and they did eventually.”
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Smith’s customers confirm.
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“It was a nightmare,” said Eric Kircher. “We really didn’t, we just complete avoided the exit until we knew it was done.”
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Icy Wakes Surf Shop cut hours to Β employees. Still, profits Β fell 15 to 20 percent. “Oh, it’s a lot. It does hurt,” said Smith.Β
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Down the mall, Fifi’s felt the same blow.Β
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However, if the now open roadway and Black Friday are any indication as to what Small Business Saturday will bring, they say maybe they’ll bounce back.
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Sadly, their neighbor at Party On plans to close this Summer.Β
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The owner predicts no holiday sale can save him from the damage the construction did.
Lake Norman Chamber of Commerce says at least three businesses closed while the crews spent the year building the overpass.
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The chamber help a meeting with business owners, made plans to promote exit 28 shops. There are several Facebook pages informing the public about the area. Civic Economics pointed out that spending $100 at one of the community’s independent businesses created $68 in additional economic activity.Β
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Now, traffic runs smoothly.. There will be one more closure to install sculptures. Business owners how the city will wait until January to do that.
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“It’s sad,” said Smith. “You don’t want anybody to fail at any business.”
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She says if locals stay loyal Saturday, they’ll make it through this year.
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