Construction crews are replacing sewer and water lines underneath the road and sidewalk, but the lack of accessibility to the shops is keeping customers away.
CLINTON, Tennessee — The sidewalks and road along Market Street in historic downtown Clinton are being re-done for a huge renovation project, which is causing confusion for people who are looking to shop in the downtown area.
Construction has not only torn up the sidewalk and the roads, but also the entrances to the stores. This has left many to wonder if the shops are even open.
"It's quite a mess out there. The streets are torn up, there's gravel everywhere and mud. But, we're still open! So, that's the good news!" said Dawn Rader, owner of Joy in the Dawn. "It has some, y'know. Luckily I have super loyal customers, but definitely I've had some emails of like, 'Hey, I couldn't get in. They're working right in front of your store.'"
Customers who are able to make it into the stores said they understand how important it is to shop local during this time.
"I think the older I get, the more important it is to see my money go to people locally, and knowing Dawn and building a relationship with her, I'm not going to get that at Target or Walmart," said customer Taya Sharp.
In order to help with the effort to get people to shop downtown, Anderson County Commissioner Josh Anderson is finding a fun way to get people to shop.
"Basically, what I'm doing is if you spend $10 and can bring me a receipt, I'll buy you a scoop of ice cream at The Chunky Monkey on the other side of the construction," said Anderson.
He said he will be at The Chunky Monkey on Saturday, August 23 for those scoops.
Rader said that because businesses are vulnerable right now, those who want to stop by and support them should do it now.
"If you want these businesses to stay open and stay available after this project, it's even more important that you shop now with us, that you eat with us, and continue to show up and tell your friends and bring your friends!" she said.
Businesses are hopeful the project will be done by the holiday season, and some think sidewalk pouring might be coming within the next few weeks.