Burlington, Vermont, September 14, 2025
News Summary
The ongoing construction on Main Street in Burlington, part of the Great Streets BTV initiative, is significantly impacting local businesses. Since its start, many owners report a dramatic decline in customer traffic, with some facing sales drops of up to 50%. Notable closures like Nectar’s and The Gryphon highlight the financial strain caused by the project, which aims to improve walkability and outdoor spaces. The city is taking steps to assist businesses, but owners remain concerned about survival through the ongoing construction.
Burlington, Vermont – The ongoing construction project on Main Street, part of the Great Streets BTV initiative, has created significant challenges for local business owners since its inception in February 2024. As construction aims to improve the downtown area’s infrastructure by creating wider sidewalks and enhanced outdoor spaces, many businesses are reporting sharp declines in customer traffic, leading to severe financial implications.
The project, which is expected to conclude by November 2026, involves extensive upgrades intended to make downtown Burlington more walkable and vibrant. However, many business owners cite a decrease in foot traffic as the main reason for their struggles, with some experiencing sales drops between 20% to 50% since construction began. Notable establishments like Nectar’s and The Gryphon have recently announced their permanent closures, attributing their decisions largely to the adverse effects of the project.
To mitigate the impact, the Burlington Department of Public Works (DPW) has taken steps to assist affected business owners. These include hiring a public involvement coordinator to address concerns and providing essential work such as water line replacement at no cost to property owners on Main Street. Additionally, the city has initiated parking promotions to help attract customers to the area.
Amid ongoing construction challenges, some businesses are adapting in creative ways. For instance, the owner of Burlington Wine Shop has pivoted to email marketing strategies to encourage sales in light of lower walk-in traffic. Meanwhile, Honey Road has struggled as it has been unable to set up outdoor seating due to the construction work, which has further hindered its sales.
Despite some completed aspects of the project, such as the installation of wider concrete sidewalks that can host more outdoor seating, many business owners are expressing frustration over the city’s ability to implement effective solutions. Following a city hall meeting, nearly 100 business representatives attended to voice their grievances, with many fearing that without further assistance, they may not survive until the construction’s completion.
Operational adjustments are already being observed, as some businesses have reduced staff and cut back on operating hours in response to decreased sales. Several proposed solutions from city officials, including the idea of allowing one-way traffic to ease access, have been deemed too costly and have further extended the construction timeline into 2027.
In an effort to support local businesses, the city has rolled out marketing initiatives and established a loan fund for those impacted by the construction. However, business owners are increasingly calling for re-evaluation of strategies during this prolonged construction phase, seeking more substantial support.
The ongoing construction on Main Street is part of a broader initiative focused not only on infrastructural improvements but also on revitalizing deteriorating properties, all aimed at enhancing the long-term resilience of the city.
Quick Summary of Project
– Construction began in February 2024 and is slated to finish in November 2026.
– Aims to improve downtown walkability through enhanced sidewalks and outdoor spaces.
– Business closures, including Nectar’s and The Gryphon, reported due to declining foot traffic.
– Business owners face sales drops from 20% to 50% with adaptive measures like reducing staff.
– City working to support businesses with marketing efforts and a loan fund amidst construction challenges.
FAQ Section
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Great Streets BTV project?
The Great Streets BTV project is an initiative aimed at improving Main Street’s infrastructure in Burlington, Vermont, focusing on wider sidewalks and more vibrant outdoor spaces.
When did the construction on Main Street begin and when is it expected to end?
The construction began in February 2024 and is expected to be completed by November 2026.
How have local businesses been affected by the construction?
Many local businesses have reported significant drops in customer foot traffic, with some experiencing sales declines between 20% to 50%. Because of this, a few businesses, such as Nectar’s and The Gryphon, have permanently closed their doors.
What support has the city provided to affected businesses?
The Burlington Department of Public Works has implemented several measures, including hiring a public involvement coordinator, replacing water lines at no cost, providing parking promotions, and establishing a loan fund for affected businesses.
What steps are business owners taking in response to the disruptions?
Businesses are adapting by implementing cost-saving measures such as reducing workforce and hours. They’ve also been exploring alternative marketing strategies to counteract the loss in foot traffic.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
North Carolina’s Construction Industry Thrives Amid Market Challenges
Additional Resources
- Vermont Biz: Burlington Business Owners Look Forward After Construction
- Seven Days: Main Street Construction is Hurting Burlington Businesses
- Burlington Free Press: The Gryphon Restaurant Closes Due to Construction
- NBC 5: Burlington Main Street Project Update
- Wikipedia: Urban Development
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
