Alexandria City Hall is getting a major makeover, but nearby businesses said the yearslong construction project is already affecting sales, especially among customers who can no longer find convenient parking.
Businesses in the 100 block of North Fairfax Street, including the Today’s Cargo jewelry store, said they have noticed changes in shopping habits since the City Hall renovation project began this year.
鈥淭he store鈥檚 been in business for 53 years, so we do have a lot of customers who are of a certain age, and it鈥檚 just more challenging when they can鈥檛 park nearby,鈥� manager Debra Devers told 蜜桃视频app.
She said parking options have become limited during construction, which is expected to continue for more than two years.
According to the city鈥檚 website, incudes renovations to the historic 1871 City Hall building, demolition of a 1960s structure and a replacement of Market Square Plaza and it’s 90,000-square-foot parking garage.
The project has also led to temporary pedestrian disruptions. The city said the north sidewalk along King Street in front of City Hall, between North Royal and North Fairfax streets, is closed through Aug. 8, with alternate pedestrian routes in place.
City leaders said the upgrades are needed to repair aging infrastructure, improve security and optimize space.
In the meantime, Devers said business owners are preparing for what could be a more difficult stretch once tourist season ends.
鈥淚t鈥檚 great now because there鈥檚 a lot of tourists in town. But once that quiets down, then what鈥檚 it going to be like?” Devers said. “That might be when we have to start thinking about being proactive with ideas of sending out one of our email blasts,鈥� Devers said.
City services, including the offices of the city manager, city clerk, mayor and City Council, have temporarily relocated to 421 King St. while City Hall remains closed.
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