Local Business Struggles Amid Local Roadwork
In Goose Creek, South Carolina, a local coffee business, Bald Monkey Beanery, is under duress due to the ongoing road and sewer construction project along Red Bank Road. Co-owner Melisa Prevatte laments the state of the locale, the lack of communication from contractors, and calls for improved communication and project management.
The Impact of the Construction on Business
Prevatte shared her frustrations with the dramatic changes brought about by the project to their once aesthetic locale. Since acquiring the property in 2014, the Prevatte’s have invested significantly into restoring the building and beautifying the surrounding area.
However, the continued construction has marred this transformation, replacing the once appealing surroundings with trash, construction debris, and even causing dangerous road conditions due to backed-up traffic. Prevatte says these changes and inconveniences have significantly impacted businesses in the area, including Bald Monkey Beanery, causing some to shutter.
Communication Challenges and Calls for Improvement
Prevatte raised concerns about lack of adequate communication regarding the construction project. The owners have been seeking answers and have been met with little to no response from their contractor. Prevatte voiced her frustration, emphasizing that as business owners, they need clear and constant updates to anticipate and plan for business impacts.
Berkeley County’s Response
Berkeley County officials have asserted that they have been holding community meetings to address the concerns raised about the project. In a statement, the county expressed commitment to the feedback and claimed they were eager to collaborate with residents and businesses to minimize the impacts of necessary improvements along Red Bank Road as viable.
Lack of Response from Contractors
Portland Utilities Construction Co. LLC, the contractor in charge of the project, has yet to respond to requests for comment. The silence from the contractor is causing additional stress and uncertainty for the businesses affected by the construction.
Community Impact
The ongoing situation clearly illustrates the significant impact that construction can have on local businesses. Without proper communication channels and efficient project management, such projects can inflict financial harm and inconveniences on business owners and residents alike. While construction updates and improvements are necessary for infrastructure advancement, it is crucial they are conducted in a manner that respects and considers the community’s needs.
For now, businesses like Bald Monkey Beanery are left grappling with the fallouts of the construction, calling for the proper handling of the situation by Berkeley County and the involved contractors.
