While the construction traffic delays in Antigonish are frustrating for drivers, the delays are also negatively impacting local businesses.

One owner has lost a third of her regular clients due to the Bay Road construction project, equaling about $15,000 in loses.

Owner of Happy Dogs Antigonish daycare and Jamieson’s Music Studio, Katie Jamieson says customers are cancelling their dog grooming appointments and music lessons, so they are not stuck sitting in traffic.

“There’s a tremendous amount of damage that’s already done. We’re trying to figure out how we’re going to recoup after that loss in revenue, especially the businesses downtown. They heavily rely on that revenue for the rest of the year,” shared Jamieson.

She says businesses involved with long-term projects that could potentially shut their doors, should know what’s happening and solutions need to be put in place.

“I think they really have to look at the next phase of the project and how they’re going to continue this project in the spring or we’ll all be back in the same boat,” warned Jamieson.

She recommends the Town communicates in advance of any work that will affect the businesses in the area.