It’s one of the most popular entertainment spots in Dallas, but Deep Ellum business owners say ongoing street construction is hurting their bottom line. And, they worry the problem will only get worse.
‘Yes, we’re open!’
That’s the message from bars and restaurants up and down Deep Ellum’s Commerce Street.
Ever since construction began last fall, business owners tell NBC 5 they’ve seen a drop in foot traffic.
Pete Zotos, longtime restaurateur of St. Pete’s Dancing Marlin, said his business is down 21%.
He’s been getting creative on social media, encouraging customers to visit and work around the mess.
The $30 million city project will convert Commerce into a two-way street and improve drainage and sidewalks. The construction is expected to last until the first quarter of 2027.
“And it’s Dallas construction. We all know how that is,” said Zotos.
Dot’s Hop House & Cocktail Courtyard put a large sign outside that reads ‘The construction is a real ditch, but we are open.’
Owner Jeff Brightwell said business at Dot’s is down 30-40% depending on the month, ever since the giant hole appeared outside his door.
He and other business leaders hope a meeting on Monday will bring solutions.
They’ve invited city leaders to hear their concerns about the expected timeline.
“They got to speed it up,” said Zotos. “It shouldn’t take this long. It just shouldn’t.”
For now, business owners have one message.
“If you like Deep Ellum, if you’ve ever liked Deep Ellum, if you thought ‘Hey, maybe I’ll go back there next week,’ don’t do it next week, do it today,” said Zotos.
The Deep Ellum Foundation stresses there is plenty of parking in the area.
A spokesperson said the nightlife district has added more than 1,000 parking spaces since the pandemic through surface lots and parking garages.