By Kathy Oswalt-Forsythe
Local businesses need support during the 131 construction project. While traffic is down to one northbound lane during this current phase, business owners want to remind residents that they can still visit village shops and restaurants through back entrances on both sides of the highway.
Signs at the Lyons Street and Eliza Street and 131 crossings direct motorists to Schoolcraft Antique Mall and MarJo’s. Signs along the detour west of town remind travelers that B & G Discount is also open. But it’s not enough, and retailers and restaurants need more help.
Sue and Bryce Cooley of Grand Antique Gallery on 131 know it “will be great when the construction is finished,” but say business has been slow. They have worked to draw attention to their back entrance, placing antiques and collectibles near the back door. Like many Schoolcraft business owners, they are hoping that motorists know how to find the streets behind various shops.
Stacey Sherman, owner of the Beauty Bar, recognized that her established clientele and social media are helping survive this difficult time, but she said she “looks forward to the traffic again.” She continued, urging the community to “Order the take out, go antiquing, grab a cold beer on a hot day, go out for breakfast on your day off. Continued support is the best way to help businesses get through to November.”
