More Edmonton businesses struggling amid LRT construction on Stony Plain Road

Some businesses in West Edmonton say they are seeing big drops in foot traffic as potential customers are deterred by the LRT construction.

“People are not actually very patient and looking for ways on how to get in there,” said Mary Grace Quijano, owner of Gracie’s Place. “As soon as they said, oh, it’s closed, they’re just go another path.”

Bijoy Sasmel, the owner of a Indian restaurant in West Edmonton called Spirt India says business has been very slow since easter.

“Now it’s totally dead because all the people, like even me also, I want to avoid this place,” said Sasmel.

Quijano says her restaurant is experiencing the same struggle.

“Right now, we’re lucky to have 10 customers a day,” said Quijano.

“It’s kind of disappointing to not really see anyone else,” said Leo Lafleur, customer of Gracie’s Place. “Because, as I’ve said, the food’s been absolutely amazing.”

Quijano adds that her business was busier during the pandemic.

“Even if I give them the proper address, and they’re already here, close to vicinity, and they can’t find their way in, they will turn around,” said Quijano.

Some businesses worry if the construction doesn’t end soon, they may need to close.

“Maybe I wait for like couple of months if the condition will be the same, I have to move,” said Sasmel. “There is no choice.”

“You can only go on to cover up for losses and expenses, and when your barrel is done and gone, then you just have to give up,” said Quijano. “But we’re still hoping.”

The city now expects Stony Plain Road at 156 Street to reopen to traffic on or around July 10, on schedule. The intersection was partially closed to vehicles on April 21.