In the middle of the Hwy 14 project, I wrote a post called "Is the Cure Killing the Patient," and reflected that the pain of local businesses along Hwy 14 reminded me of the pain of patients who were going through chemo and wondering whether it was the cancer or the medication that was killing them. I also reflected on what the role of government was during this time of extreme change to mitigate the pain. The answer that I received from many folks was one word---"NONE".
However, now that we know the extent of the damage done, it might be helpful to ask the question one more time. Now that we know. Now that we are wiser. Now that we can better forsee the future. Forgetting the thought of bringing wonderful business to Evansville for a moment. What is the role of government of keeping the business we have here on Main street healthy..... and alive?
The comment line is open. You make the call.
P.S. For the trivia folks, it was the 1965 song by Barry McGuire called the "Eve of Destruction." I have referenced the lyrics on the post. Time flies.
The Evansville Observer Archive: The unofficial history of Evansville, Wisconsin from 2005-2013: Thousands of Video and Audio and Articles; Free: To Search scroll to the Search this Blog line and enter name of person, topic, or issue. Then scroll up to see all articles. Or use Google Search by topic. Enjoy.
I couldn't find examples of financial assistance from DOT, but they do have a site to help plan for minimizing the impact of construction. I don't know if there is anything on this that hasn't already been considered.
ReplyDeletehttp://www.dot.wisconsin.gov/business/engrserv/itt/index.htm
p.s.
ReplyDeletepart of that post cut off (dex.htm) I think it will copy and paste even though you can't see it.
Apparently the roll of state & local government is not to directly subsidize local business, even if they are adversely affected by a state project. I think you could make the argument that it is unfair, for the project to be detrimental to an established business and then they "new guy," gets to come in and reap the benefits after the established business could not "weather the storm." But life isn't always fair.
ReplyDeleteThat being said, I have an idea for the businesses that will be affected to consider. Would it be possible to use the park for a steak or fish fry on a Friday or Saturday evening. The businesses that would be affected could coordinate the dinner and share the profits. Perhaps they could do this 4-5 times throughout the summer of construction to help them offset their losses. The bloggers of the community could help promote these events. Maybe the city could supply the signage (not sure if this is acceptable or if only re-routing signs could be justified). I think the community would show support for the businesses/this type of event. If the Night Owl really does close and invests some TIF money in a new storefront, perhaps they would be interested in taking the lead.