As the cacophony of construction equipment becomes a familiar soundtrack in downtown Pittsburgh's Market Square, business owners are wrestling with disrupted foot traffic and the challenges it brings. With a keen eye on the finish line - being ready for the 2026 NFL Draft - the local establishments are expressing a mixture of hope and concern. "Just knowing that we all care and support each other, so having more outside influence of that same kind of love and support would be very, very helpful and welcome," Kelly Sanders, co-owner of Love, Pittsburgh, stated, as per WTAE.
Contrasting these hopeful sentiments are the stark realities facing other businesses. Some, like the General Manager of Whiskey B's, Joseph Parsons, face the immediate task of mitigating significant financial losses. "We're gonna be down $100,000 in sales in two months," Parsons said in a statement obtained by CBS News. His establishment hasn't even borne the full brunt of blocked avenues yet, and Parsons has already made difficult personnel decisions, admitting, "I actually had to let go of my number one cook two days ago." Talib Hussein of Cherries Diner described fluctuations with a succinct "Come up-down, up-down," indicating inconsistent business even as revitalization efforts ramp up.
Countering this narrative is Kathy Marsico of Nicholas Coffee and Tea, who cited a more adaptive business model that's less reliant on walk-in customers. "They've been a little bit down – but nothing really to be upset about or be concerned about right now," Marsico told CBS News. She reflected positively on the construction crews for being amenable to adjustments when possible and the Pittsburgh Downtown Partnership (PDP) for their supportive communication efforts.
