In Eastern Carolina, residents and business owners are grappling with ongoing construction delays on New Bridge Street in Jacksonville. Initially slated to conclude by December 2024, the project has faced unexpected setbacks, pushing its completion into early spring. The city cites underground issues as the primary cause of these delays, leading to significant disruptions for those who frequent the downtown area.

A Roadblock to Progress: How Construction Delays Are Impacting Local Businesses and Residents

The Ripple Effect on Daily Commutes

The prolonged construction on New Bridge Street has forced many residents to rethink their daily routines. Sarah Gereg, a local commuter, has had to adjust her schedule significantly. She now allocates an extra 10 to 15 minutes to navigate around the construction site, even for short trips across the street. This inconvenience highlights the broader impact that infrastructure projects can have on everyday life. For Gereg and others like her, the delays have introduced a layer of unpredictability into their daily commutes, requiring careful planning and flexibility.The disruption extends beyond just time management. The rerouting of traffic has also led to increased congestion on alternate routes, causing frustration among drivers. Many residents express concerns about the long-term effects of these changes, particularly if the delays continue well into the new year. While the city assures that the project will eventually enhance the area’s infrastructure, the immediate challenges remain a source of stress for those affected.

Businesses Feel the Strain

For local businesses, the construction delays pose a more profound challenge. Alicia Aviles-Corey, owner of Carolina Coast Lactation, has noticed a decline in client visits due to parking difficulties. Her business, which has been a cornerstone of the community for nearly two decades, is facing new hurdles as clients struggle to find parking spaces. Aviles-Corey reports receiving numerous calls from potential customers asking if her business is still operational, indicating a growing concern about accessibility.The situation is not unique to Carolina Coast Lactation. Other businesses in the vicinity are experiencing similar issues, with many reporting a drop in foot traffic. The lack of available parking has made it harder for clients to visit, leading to missed appointments and lost revenue. Business owners are concerned that these challenges could have lasting effects on their operations, especially if the delays persist. Despite the city’s assurances that the project will ultimately benefit the area, the immediate impact on local commerce cannot be overlooked.

City Responds to Concerns

Jacksonville Deputy City Manager Ron Massey acknowledges the frustrations voiced by residents and business owners. He explains that while the delays are inconvenient, they are necessary to address unforeseen underground issues. The city remains committed to completing the project as quickly as possible, but emphasizes that such challenges are common in infrastructure development.Massey also addresses the financial concerns raised by business owners. Although the city does not plan to offer automatic compensation for losses incurred during the construction period, businesses can file claims against the city. These claims will then be reviewed by the city’s insurance provider, ensuring that affected parties have a pathway to seek support. While this process may not fully alleviate the strain on local businesses, it provides a mechanism for addressing some of the financial impacts.

A Focus on Future Benefits

Despite the current disruptions, the city maintains that the completed project will bring substantial improvements to the area. Once finished, the repaving and streetscaping initiatives will enhance the aesthetic appeal of New Bridge Street, making it more inviting for both residents and visitors. The upgraded infrastructure will also improve traffic flow and pedestrian safety, contributing to the overall quality of life in Jacksonville.Moreover, the project aims to stimulate economic growth by attracting new businesses and tourists to the area. The enhanced streetscape will create a more vibrant environment, encouraging investment and development. While the delays have undoubtedly caused frustration, the long-term benefits of the project are expected to outweigh the temporary inconveniences. As the city works to resolve the remaining challenges, it remains focused on delivering a positive outcome for the community.