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Getting Around Metro Detroit: Tips to surviving construction for businesses

Posted at 5:33 PM, Jun 17, 2019
and last updated 2019-06-17 18:39:17-04

(WXYZ) — When getting around metro Detroit is tough, businesses suffer. Action News has reported on a handful of businesses that have gone out of business because they say they took too big of a financial hit during construction.

Some businesses take a "wait and see" approach. Experts say they are much more likely to go under. Other businesses are proactive and more likely to survive construction and thrive afterwards, according to experts.

Siouxsan Miller is the co-owner of Green Daffodil in Ferndale, and is still thriving after six months of road construction.

“It's preparation that is my number one thing," Miller said. "Preparing for what is going to come instead of reacting to the problem when it’s upon you.”

Here are some things Troy has done to support businesses during construction:

  • We did some additional signage with business locations noted on the signs.
  • local businesses did construction specials, and local papers wrote stories to promote it.
  • We had a part time employee go business to business with literature and updates.
  • We also used the website TroyRoadsRock.com to update businesses.
  • The information we had available through the website was also a major contributor to the success.
  • We also reached out to the Troy Chamber of Commerce and its Hospitality Committee (representatives from the hotel and restaurant community) to help get the word out and keep them informed on construction progress