The city is transforming the corridor to make it more walkable and vibrant, but shop owners say the work has created challenges in the meantime.
FRISCO, Texas — On Frisco’s Main Street, the smell of burgers on the grill and the sound of orders called across the counter are competing with something else: construction.
At Dad Jokes Cheesy Burger, co-owner Gabby Jones said days like Small Business Saturday are critical. “Small businesses are really us trying to support our staff too,” Jones said.
The restaurant opened four months ago in the middle of the city’s multi-million dollar construction project. Jones said they were hoping Saturday would bring a larger crowd.
“We were really hoping today would be busy. It’s been a little steady, but not what we were preparing for,” she said. “We are so grateful for the people that have walked in the doors.”
Small businesses along Frisco’s Main Street say they are feeling the effects of a lengthy construction project that has reshaped the Rail District for more than a year and a half.
The city is transforming the corridor to make it more walkable and vibrant, but shop owners say the work has created challenges in the meantime.
A few blocks down at Didi’s Downtown, owner and chef Scott Hoffner has watched new sidewalks take shape outside his restaurant.
“This is the new sidewalk, yeah,” he said. “It’s big enough you can drive a car down it, but I’m just glad to see it.”
According to the city, new sidewalks and the return of two-way traffic on Main Street will open soon.
Hoffner said construction has slowed the flow of customers many businesses rely on.
“If you don’t support small businesses, we won’t be here,” Hoffner said.
“Small businesses, in my mind, are what make the world go round.”
Despite the challenges, business owners say they are optimistic the improvements will bring more people back to the Rail District once the work is complete.
Jones said she is ready for that day.
“We hope that it becomes even better when the construction’s done,” she said.