Road closure putting dent on stores along a stretch of Princess St in Kingston

The closure is part of work being done to replace water main, sewers and underground hydro lines in Williamsville area.

It's been more than two months since work on the Princess St reconstruction began and businesses along the affected stretch are feeling the impact.

Phase One of the Williamsville Renewal project started April 20 with the closure of Princess between Frontenac St to the west and Division St. in the east. That work will include the replacement of water mains, sanitary sewers, and underground hydro lines.

Jersey barriers have been installed at selected intersections near the construction zone to limit vehicles going into the area. Sidewalks along Princess St remain open to pedestrians allowing for them to reach businesses in the area.

But the amount of foot traffic alone hasn't been enough to help these businesses.

Williamsville Councillor Vincent Cinanni says some of them have taken a bigger hit than others.

One of the businesses being affected by the construction is SpinCo.

Manager Jordan Miller says some of their clients are having difficulty getting to their classes.

Miller says staff who work there are also facing challenges getting to and from work.

Some stores like Meltwich Food Co and Big Smoke Burger have not opened since construction began. Cinanni says there is a sign outside Big Smoke Burger indicating it has been sold to new owners.

He is encouraging residents to visit the shops that are open.

Phase One is expected to be completed by this December in which the road will be reopened to traffic. It will be shut down again next spring when the second phase of the project is expected to get underway.

Cinanni says once the work is done, it will help rejuvinate and bring more people to the area.

Story by Ken Hashizume