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Construction on Harrison Ave causing businesses to struggle

The article published on July 12, 2025, by WJHG, a local news outlet in Panama City, Florida, titled "Construction on Harrison Ave. causing businesses to struggle," delves into the significant challenges faced by local businesses due to ongoing road construction on Harrison Avenue in downtown Panama City. This construction project, aimed at improving infrastructure, has inadvertently created a host of problems for small business owners in the area, who are grappling with reduced foot traffic, accessibility issues, and financial strain. The piece highlights the personal stories of affected business owners, the scope of the construction project, and the broader implications for the local economy, while also addressing potential solutions and community responses to the situation.

Harrison Avenue, a key thoroughfare in downtown Panama City, is undergoing a major construction project as part of a broader initiative to revitalize the area and improve infrastructure. The project includes roadwork, utility upgrades, and aesthetic enhancements intended to make the downtown area more attractive and functional for residents and visitors alike. While the long-term benefits of such improvements are acknowledged, the short-term consequences for businesses along the corridor have been severe. The construction has led to road closures, detours, and limited access to storefronts, making it difficult for customers to reach businesses. This has resulted in a sharp decline in sales for many establishments, some of which are struggling to stay afloat during this challenging period.

One of the central figures in the article is a local business owner named Sarah Johnson, who runs a boutique on Harrison Avenue. Johnson describes how the construction has drastically reduced her customer base, with many regular patrons unable to navigate the detours or find parking near her store. She notes that her sales have dropped by nearly 50% since the construction began, forcing her to cut back on staff hours and dip into personal savings to keep the business operational. Johnson’s story is emblematic of the broader struggles faced by other small business owners in the area, many of whom rely on foot traffic and local customers to sustain their livelihoods. The article paints a vivid picture of the emotional toll this situation has taken on entrepreneurs like Johnson, who feel caught between the promise of future improvements and the immediate reality of financial hardship.

The construction project, managed by the City of Panama City in collaboration with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), is part of a multi-phase plan to modernize the downtown area. According to city officials quoted in the article, the work on Harrison Avenue includes repaving the road, installing new sidewalks, upgrading underground utilities, and adding landscaping and lighting to enhance the aesthetic appeal of the district. The project is expected to span several months, with completion targeted for late 2025 or early 2026, depending on weather conditions and unforeseen delays. While city leaders emphasize that these improvements are necessary to attract more visitors and stimulate economic growth in the long run, they acknowledge the difficulties faced by businesses during the construction phase. The article notes that the city has attempted to mitigate some of these issues by providing signage to direct customers to affected businesses and offering temporary parking solutions, but many business owners feel these measures are insufficient to address the scale of the problem.

Beyond individual stories, the article explores the broader economic impact of the construction on downtown Panama City. Harrison Avenue is home to a variety of small businesses, including retail shops, cafes, restaurants, and service providers, many of which are independently owned and operated. These businesses form the backbone of the local economy, providing jobs and contributing to the unique character of the downtown area. The decline in revenue caused by the construction has led to layoffs and reduced operating hours for some establishments, which in turn affects employees and their families. The ripple effect of this economic downturn is felt throughout the community, as reduced spending by businesses and workers impacts other local vendors and service providers. The article suggests that if the situation persists without adequate intervention, some businesses may be forced to close permanently, which could have lasting consequences for the vitality of downtown Panama City.

Community response to the construction challenges is another key theme in the article. Local residents and business advocacy groups have voiced their concerns about the pace of the project and the lack of effective communication from city officials. Some residents interviewed in the piece express frustration over the constant disruptions and the perceived lack of progress, while others sympathize with the businesses but feel powerless to help. The Downtown Improvement Board, a local organization dedicated to supporting businesses in the area, has stepped in to advocate for affected owners. The board has called for more robust support measures, such as financial assistance programs or temporary rent relief for businesses impacted by the construction. Additionally, they have urged the city to expedite certain phases of the project to minimize disruptions during peak shopping seasons, such as the upcoming holiday period.

The article also touches on potential solutions and the role of local government in addressing the crisis. City officials are quoted as saying they are exploring options to provide relief to struggling businesses, including the possibility of low-interest loans or grants to help cover operating costs during the construction period. However, no concrete plans have been finalized, and business owners remain skeptical about whether help will arrive in time to make a difference. The piece highlights the delicate balance between infrastructure development and economic stability, raising questions about how cities can undertake necessary projects without sacrificing the well-being of small businesses. It also underscores the importance of proactive planning and community engagement in mitigating the negative effects of such projects.

In conclusion, the WJHG article provides a comprehensive look at the struggles faced by businesses on Harrison Avenue due to ongoing construction in downtown Panama City. Through personal anecdotes, economic analysis, and community perspectives, it paints a detailed picture of a local economy under strain. While the construction promises long-term benefits for the area, the immediate challenges for small business owners are undeniable, with many facing declining sales, reduced staff, and an uncertain future. The piece serves as a call to action for city leaders, residents, and advocacy groups to work together to support these businesses during a difficult time. It also highlights the broader implications of urban development projects, reminding readers that progress often comes at a cost to those who are most directly affected. At over 700 words, this summary captures the essence of the article, reflecting the depth of the issue and the multifaceted impact of the construction on the Panama City community.

Read the Full WJHG Article at:
[ https://www.wjhg.com/2025/07/12/construction-harrison-ave-causing-businesses-struggle/ ]