Nearly 100 businesses along a stretch of Danforth Avenue say they are seeing “dramatic declines” in customer traffic and revenue, with nearly 70 per cent saying construction could force them to close.
Construction is currently taking place along Danforth Avenue between Victoria Park Avenue and Main Street. Work began in late February to improve watermain and sewer infrastructure, as well as catch basins and bike-lane infrastructure.
A survey conducted by the Danforth Village Business Improvement Area found that, among 96 businesses surveyed, 95.8 per cent reported a decrease in foot traffic and in revenue.
The report said 33.3 per cent of businesses reported revenue losses of more than 60 per cent.
“The businesses understand that there’s watermain work that has to be done here. Some of the watermains have been over 100 years old,” said Louie Dapergolas of the Danforth Village BIA.
“The point now is that businesses have been basically shut down. Businesses are hurting really, really bad.”
Nearly 70 per cent of the businesses surveyed said they are worried their businesses could close amid the ongoing construction.
“Right now, my phone is cut off. I can’t get help because I have no money, revenue coming in. My bills are due, cannot be paid,” said Sophia Gordon, a local area business owner.
The construction is currently scheduled to wrap up in November, according to City of Toronto documents. But it also stated that project timelines could change.
The BIA is calling on city officials to complete the project by December 2026 and to address “customer access immediately, provide meaningful financial assistance, improve communication with businesses, and minimize additional disruption.”
In a statement to CTV News, City of Toronto media relations manager Kayla Lewis said the city “recognizes that major construction projects can be challenging for businesses, residents and visitors.”
“We appreciate hearing directly from local businesses and will review the findings shared by the Danforth Village BIA,” Lewis said.
“The City continues to work closely with the BIA and other local stakeholders to help mitigate the impacts of construction. This includes proactive business outreach, regular communications, dedicated on-site support and signage, as well as phased construction to help maintain access, traffic flow and business visibility. A dedicated City adviser also works directly with the BIA to discuss financial assistance, programs and other supports.”
“The City will continue to identify opportunities to promote the area, support local economic activity and help businesses navigate the impacts of construction,” she said.
In total, 69.8 per cent of businesses surveyed said they were either concerned or potentially concerned that construction-related disruptions could result in their business closing.
“This is the worst year ever,” said Don Cipioni, another local business owner.
“No sales at all, just a little bit of service, and the rent is very expensive here.”
With files from CTV News’ Janice Golding
