Light rail construction derails stores

NORFOLK, Va. - Behind closed doors, Norfolk city leaders held yet another light rail meeting with business owners. Wednesday's topic: upcoming power line work at Boush and Bute streets.

"The frustration is beyond words," says David Klemt, owner of the fine gift store Serendip.

Light rail construction fills the view of his store's front window. While the meetings are informative, Klemt says more often than not, the city and contractors are on different pages. The miscommunication puts a bigger dent is his already down profits.

"It was going to start on a particular day and it started on the day before. We like to be able to inform our customers in some manner that things are going to take place, heads up," Klemt explained.

If anything, the construction seems to bring business owners closer together and that's helping the city stay informed says Norfolk city spokesperson Bob Batcher.

"We've had situations where areas have become available parking, but the areas weren't used as we thought they would be, but the business came together."

Klemt does not expect the power work to affect his business, but Batcher says it will affect drivers who regularly use Boush.

"If you come down Boush street to 264 stay on Brambleton Ave., stay off of it and don't use it as a through street."

Boush street will go down to one lane at the intersection. The construction is expected to last two weeks. Most of the noisy work will happen between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m. If you live in that area and have a concern, call 621-6454.