Downtown Paris Business Owners Struggle Amidst Construction Delays and Uncertainty

Strategic Insights -

As the main street in downtown Paris nears its reopening in November, business owners are still grappling with the challenges posed by a massive, multi-year construction project. Grand River Street North has been under renovation since May 8, with the aim of rebuilding aging underground infrastructure, widening sidewalks, improving accessibility, and giving the historic core a fresh look. However, the project has taken a toll on local businesses, particularly those with loyal clients who rely on the main strip.

Key Takeaways:

  • Marylou Bergman, a hairdresser who has operated Paris Coiffures on the main strip for 45 years, has seen a decline in clientele due to the construction, particularly those with mobility issues. She has spent over $100 in rugs from Costco to cover her floor and has experienced water main outages that have cut off water to her salon unexpectedly.
  • Val Simpson, the owner of One Sixty One, moved her business to a smaller space around the corner due to the construction. She reported "significantly down" foot traffic and sales, but attributed the decline to a combination of the location, construction, and economic uncertainty.
  • Simpson expressed frustration with the lack of support from the county, recalling an interest-free loan program offered by the county, which she felt was unhelpful. Melissa Connor, the county's manager of communications for operations, explained that municipal funding is subject to strict regulatory and budgetary constraints, limiting the county's ability to offer direct financial compensation to businesses.
  • The Paris Dig Sustainability Program through Enterprise Brant, which provides loan programs and free consulting services, has been touted as a support initiative for businesses. However, Simpson felt that the program was insufficient and that the county's response to her concerns was inadequate.
  • Business owners are bracing for the next phase of construction, which will occur in 2026, and are painting a grim picture of their prospects in the coming months.

Statistics:

  • The construction project began on May 8.
  • Marylou Bergman has spent over $100 on rugs from Costco to cover her floor.
  • Val Simpson reported a "significant" decline in foot traffic and sales at her new location.
  • The Paris Dig Sustainability Program provides loan programs and free consulting services.
  • The Business Development Bank of Canada offers financing and advice to businesses.

Sources:

  • Bergman, Marylou. Quoted in The Hamilton Spectator.
  • Connor, Melissa. Manager of communications for operations, County of Brant. Interview with The Spectator.
  • Simpson, Val. Owner of One Sixty One. Quoted in The Hamilton Spectator.
  • Bailey, David. Mayor of Paris. Interview with Brant Blog in May.