The Eastown district in Grand Rapids is experiencing a resurgence after the completion of a road construction project that had disrupted local businesses, including a champagne bar, for nearly five months. Pursuit of Happiness Co., located in the Kingsley Building, is hosting a ribbon-cutting event and a communal champagne toast to mark the occasion.
Wendy Wassink, the owner of the eclectic champagne bar, reflected on the resilience and determination that helped her business navigate the prolonged disruption. "We've been celebrating for over a week and business has been really good," Wassink conveyed to FOX 17. The long-awaited end of construction comes as a sigh of relief, considering businesses like Wassink's witnessed a significant drop in foot traffic. "We've seen a 50% decrease in business since the construction started," she added.
The roadwork, which stretched from Lake Drive to Plymouth Avenue, was a large-scale project involving the installation of a new water main, replacement of lead water lines, and the milling and resurfacing of streets. With a total investment of $3.5 million from the Michigan Department of Transportation, along with funding from the cities of Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids, the infrastructure upgrades were considered essential, despite the strain they placed on local businesses. According to a report by WOODTV, city officials had urged the community to continue supporting local establishments, including businesses like Matchbox Diner, Argos Comics and Books, and Fruition, during the construction period.
In an interview with WZZM 13, Wassink disclosed the heightened sense of community support that surged during the challenging period. "At times, honestly, we were not sure we were going to make it, but we did, and we feel like survivors," she said. The owner attributed her bar's survival during the road closure to the dedication of her staff, along with the continued support from loyal customers and fellow local business owners.
Pursuit of Happiness Co. offers a variety of options, from traditional bubbly to crafted spritz cocktails, in a casual and inclusive atmosphere. "Without (small businesses), the community isn't super interesting. That's where a lot of the personality comes in," Wassink told WOODTV, stressing the importance of continued support for local ventures, especially in the face of obstacles.
