Navigating the Crossroads: How Construction Impacts East Side Food Hall

The Crossroads Collective Food Hall on Milwaukee's east side has faced a challenging few months, reporting a decline in business and foot traffic due to nearby construction projects. The food hall, known for its diverse array of local vendors, has had to adapt to the disruptions caused by the city's efforts to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety in the area.

Revitalizing the Neighborhood, Disrupting the Business

Losing Foot Traffic and Parking

The Crossroads Collective Food Hall has long been a hub of activity on Milwaukee's east side, drawing in crowds with its vibrant mix of local eateries and artisanal vendors. However, the past month has seen a significant decline in business, as the food hall's Assistant General Manager, Corey Bozic, explains. "We are a high foot traffic area, so losing our sidewalks and crosswalks made us take a hit. Plus, now roads are blocked off, and there is already little parking around us," Bozic said.The construction projects have not only impacted the accessibility of the food hall but have also disrupted the flow of foot traffic that the establishment relies on. With sidewalks and crosswalks closed, and roads blocked off, the once bustling area has become a challenge for both customers and vendors to navigate.

Struggling Small Businesses

The impact of the construction has been particularly felt by the small businesses that call the Crossroads Collective home. Eva Savva, the co-owner of Temple Goddess Cafe, expressed the difficulties her business has faced. "It's hard," Savva said, as she described the slow business throughout the summer and the exacerbation of the issue due to the ongoing construction.Savva's concerns are echoed by Bozic, who noted that the majority of the vendors at the Crossroads Collective are small businesses that rely heavily on the steady flow of customers. "Most of our vendors are small businesses and really need the clientele," Bozic added, highlighting the precarious position these local entrepreneurs find themselves in.

Uncertain Future

The uncertainty surrounding the future of the Crossroads Collective is palpable, as Savva shared her concerns about the possibility of having to close her business if the situation does not improve soon. "We've been slow. The summertime has not been good. And you can see, it's a Friday, and it's like I've had maybe four sales? I mean, it's not been that good," Savva said, expressing her frustration with the current state of affairs.The challenges faced by the Crossroads Collective are not unique, as small businesses across the country have had to navigate the complexities of the pandemic and the ever-changing economic landscape. However, the added burden of construction-related disruptions has only exacerbated the struggles for this vibrant food hall and its tenants.

Navigating the Roadblocks

The construction projects surrounding the Crossroads Collective are part of the city's efforts to improve pedestrian and bicycle safety in the area. Along Prospect Avenue, from Ogden to Kenilworth, the city is installing bumpouts and raising a sidewalk, while on North Avenue, from Newhall to Farwell, the city is updating protected bike lanes and conducting other paving work.While these infrastructure improvements are welcomed by many in the community, the disruptions caused by the construction have created a challenging environment for the Crossroads Collective and its vendors. Navigating the road and sidewalk closures has become a daily obstacle for both customers and businesses, further exacerbating the already difficult situation.

A Glimmer of Hope

Despite the challenges, there is a glimmer of hope for the Crossroads Collective. The construction immediately surrounding the food hall's building at the intersection of North Avenue and Farwell Avenue is expected to be completed by November, providing some relief to the struggling businesses. Additionally, the Department of Public Works has stated that the North Avenue project will be complete by the end of the year, while the Prospect Avenue project is slated for completion in 2023.As the construction projects progress, the Crossroads Collective and its vendors will need to continue to adapt and find creative ways to attract customers and maintain their businesses. The support of the local community will be crucial in ensuring the survival of this vibrant food hall and the small businesses that call it home.