Florida Street Businesses Still Hurt By Construction

Struggling candy maker Julie Wheat is happy to help the occasional customer. Even though it's easier to drive up to her store, she doesn't expect holiday sale to be half of last year's take. For some perspective, in 2006 before the project started Julie Wheat pulled in $30,000 at holiday time. Last year it was only about $15,000.

“Until it's opened up completely I don't think the walk-in traffic will be what it was before,” says the owner of Mrs. Wheat’s Treats Julie Wheat. This year, she’s working solo. She says hiring seasonal help is too expensive this year.

“You've got to carry workman's comp insurance payroll taxes, you can’t always depend on your employees,” Wheat says laughingly. Over at M & A Studio, owner James Michael Nall says the construction on his front doorstep has lead to his slowest season in 40 years

“I've watched them and I don't understand why they can't move faster it just seems to take forever,” says Nall. Troubled food spot the Whistle stop needs a Christmas miracle. Owner Hal Metzger says he's not sure how much longer he can stay in business. Even though construction has slowed foot traffic considerably, not everyone's economic woes can be tied directly to this project.

“People do not have much disposable income, candy is not a necessity,” says Julie Wheat. Several business owners have joined in a lawsuit against the city and engineering firm over the project. They’re seeking compensation for lost business.