INDIANAPOLIS — Ongoing construction for IndyGo’s Blue Line is bringing major changes to parts of Indianapolis’ east side — and big headaches for the small businesses trying to survive along the corridor.
Work is currently underway along Washington Street. When finished, the Blue Line will feature smoother roads, upgraded curb ramps and new sidewalks — improvements meant to benefit bus riders, pedestrians, motorists and cyclists.
“No water. We’ve had no entrance to our street. It’s no business. People just seeing road closed signs and turning around and going somewhere else, Michelle Roberts, the Owner of The Magick Candle tells WRTV.
But small business owners tell WRTV they are seeing an impact to it's bottom line, as the ongoing construction makes it hard for customers to reach them.
"We’ve definitely slowed down,” said Justin St. John the owner of Maximum Grow Gardening. St. John owns a business along the road. “We’ve seen slower numbers this year and over the last couple of weeks than we have ever historically, so that’s hard.
The Magick Candle reports a similar hit to sales.
“I would say hundreds, maybe even a thousand a week. Like, it’s pretty rough,” Roberts said.
IndyGo says it understands that construction produces short-term headaches, but adds the long-term know gains in the form of smoother pavement, new or upgraded curb ramps, and new or replaced sidewalks, will enhance access all along the route, especially in Irvington, and benefit bus riders, as well as pedestrians, motorists and cyclists.
The completed line will connect Indianapolis International Airport to the town of Cumberland, via downtown Indianapolis along I-70, Holt Road and Washington Street.
The Blue Line is expected to open in 2028.
“You know, support the local businesses,” St. John said. “They’re what keeps the local economy thriving.”
