MOUNT VERNON — In the early stages of the Coshocton Avenue widening and safety project, businesses in the area where some utility work has begun have not suffered — so far.
“These first few days, people are driving right in,” said Patti Bertka, general manager of Friendly’s Restaurant. “There’s been no effect at night.”
She also said that as the project develops, there might be some impact on business, but she hopes not.
Terry Talbot, part owner of Eastside Laundry and Tanning, said she hasn’t seen any significant drop in business due to the work. She said the tanning side of the business normally slows down this time of year.
Eastwood was closed for a short time, but access to the laundry was maintained, and business has generally remained about the same.
The orange barrels haven’t yet extended to O’Reilly Auto Parts, but the manager said the company headquarters in Missouri had instructed them not to say anything about how business was doing.
SR Marketing is also located where early work is under way, but it doesn’t rely on customer traffic into the business. Janice Stone said the only effect has been some inconvenience for the staff getting in and out.
“The guys working in the area are good” about helping them get in and out, she said.
