This one struck a chord with me as I've recently seen posts regarding construction in Main Street/downtown areas which appear to drag on for a lengthy amount of time. While I'm sure these projects are needed, necessary repairs or upgrades, the disruption to local businesses can be significant and long-lasting. I can't help but wonder what it takes to ensure such a process goes smoothly? How can local leaders take interest in the retail point of view; are town officials considering the business owners perspective and working together to minimize upheaval? What are the long-term goals for areas slated for redevelopment, and is there effort made to establish good communication? Dialog and planning is such an essential component for building good working relationships - and yet it's one often overlooked. Have you had your business affected by upgrades on nearby streets, or lived through a process which changed the landscape of your community? And if so, what did you observe about the process and which tools or steps helped facilitate a smooth journey during construction?
'Small Businesses are in Crisis': Grand Forks Business Owner Urges City Leaders to Step In
"The downtown Grand Forks boutique Voxxy is no more. Its owner is urging city leaders to get involved and said downtown construction 'ravaged a lot of businesses"
The store mentioned in the article is Voxxy, "a women’s clothing boutique located in vibrant and beautiful downtown Grand Forks, ND. Founded in 2015, Voxxy believes that fashion is a powerful form of expression, beauty and love."
Additional perspective: while reading up on some of the growth and changes taking place in Grand Forks, North Dakota, I found this piece by the Herald editorial board; a sharp reminder that no matter how much may seem to stand in the way of small business, if we are truly committed to our independents then we will find a way to support them.
"Our view: Shop local. Fly local. Attend local."
What it really comes down to is this: Use it or lose it.