Downtown Aiken businesses are continuing to face significant challenges due to ongoing construction delays on Broad Street. Business leaders report that the extended project timeline is negatively impacting their operations, with no clear end in sight.
Michael Weldon, a local business owner, noted that the project’s completion date has been repeatedly pushed back. Initially, his block was expected to be finished around Halloween or Thanksgiving, but the current estimate is now Christmas. Weldon expressed concern that the delays will severely affect his business and others in the area, particularly as the holiday season approaches.
Further along Broad Street, the construction has expanded to encompass additional businesses. Evan Grantski, who owns a record store, has resorted to placing large posters in his windows to inform customers that his establishment remains open despite the ongoing work. He described these efforts as an attempt to make light of a difficult situation.
Bradley’s Barbecue, a new restaurant, had planned its opening around the anticipated completion of construction on its block. However, due to the delays, the restaurant opened a month ago without a sidewalk directly in front of its entrance. Heather Reeves, the general manager, stated that the lack of a sidewalk and constantly changing road patterns have negatively impacted evening business, making it difficult for customers to navigate the area after dark.
Despite the setbacks, Reeves maintains an optimistic outlook and encourages residents to support local businesses. She emphasized that businesses cannot control the road construction but still require community patronage. Reeves acknowledged that progress often involves temporary disruptions, stating that conditions may worsen before improving, but ultimately contribute to a more beautiful downtown for visitors.
