News Summary
Local business owners in Deep Ellum are facing significant revenue declines, with some reporting a drop of up to 80% in foot traffic due to the extensive construction on Commerce Street. The $30 million project aims to revamp the street layout and improve infrastructure, but has left many business owners voicing concerns about the adverse effects on their revenues and customer access. With construction set to continue until 2027, local establishments are advocating for support and solutions to mitigate the challenges they are facing.
Dallas – Business owners in Deep Ellum are experiencing significant revenue declines as a result of the ongoing construction project on Commerce Street, which commenced last fall. Local businesses report drastic decreases in foot traffic, with some owners noting a drop of upwards of 80% since construction began. The project, budgeted at $30 million, aims to transform Commerce Street from a one-way to a two-way thoroughfare, while also addressing drainage and sidewalk improvements. This construction effort is projected to continue until the first quarter of 2027.
Store owners have been vocal about the adverse effects of the project on their businesses. For instance, Pete Zotos, the owner of St. Pete’s Dancing Marlin, reported a revenue decline of 21%, while Jeff Brightwell of Dot’s Hop House & Cocktail Courtyard indicated that his business has fluctuated between a 30-40% loss depending on the month. Meanwhile, Sukhee Suwal from Arch by Suki revealed an alarming 80% decrease in foot traffic, prompting considerations to relocate back to her previous storefront.
Construction Details and Timeline
The construction on Commerce Street is expected to last until December 2026. Initiated by the Dallas Department of Transportation & Public Works, the project includes installations of a new water line and various enhancements to the street infrastructure. Officials hope that these upgrades will ultimately benefit both the community and local businesses in the long term.
Challenges Faced by Local Businesses
Amid the construction, business owners are facing a range of challenges including severe decreases in customer visits and heightened parking issues. Many patrons have reported difficulties in locating parking, along with increased parking costs. To address these concerns, the Deep Ellum Foundation has introduced over 1,000 parking spaces since the onset of the pandemic; however, many business owners believe that this effort is insufficient in light of the ongoing disruptions.
In an attempt to draw in customers, store owners have been utilizing signage to indicate that their establishments remain open despite the construction barriers. However, many customers perceive the area as closed due to the extensive construction work, further contributing to the revenue declines.
Response from City Officials
City Councilmember Jesse Moreno has acknowledged the detrimental impact of the construction on local businesses and plans to meet with affected owners and representatives from utility provider Oncor. The aim is to discuss concerns regarding the project and explore potential solutions that could ease the burden on these businesses.
Additionally, the city is working on improving signage around the area to better inform visitors that local businesses are operational during the construction phase. Similar street enhancement projects in nearby regions, such as Elm Street, have recently been completed and offer a potential model for successful outcomes.
Conclusion
The ongoing Commerce Street construction is posing significant challenges to Deep Ellum business owners, drastically affecting foot traffic and revenues. With construction expected to stretch into 2027, these local businesses are advocating for solutions and greater support from city officials to help mitigate the impacts of the project on their operations.
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Additional Resources
- NBC DFW: Deep Ellum Bars & Restaurants Say Construction Hurting Business
- Wikipedia: Deep Ellum
- NBC DFW: Deep Ellum Business Owners Say Construction is Hurting Business
- Google Search: Deep Ellum construction impact
- WFAA: Deep Ellum Construction Continues to Strain Small Businesses
- Google Scholar: Deep Ellum construction effects
- NBC DFW: Social Media Post Highlights Deep Ellum Business Concerns During Construction
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Deep Ellum
- WFAA: Deep Ellum Businesses Still Feel Impact of Construction
- Google News: Deep Ellum business challenges
Author: STAFF HERE CLEVELAND WRITER
CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER The CLEVELAND STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECleveland.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Cleveland, Cuyahoga County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Cleveland International Film Festival, Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, and the Cleveland Air Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Cleveland Partnership and Destination Cleveland, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Cleveland Clinic and Sherwin-Williams. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Ohio's dynamic landscape.
