Essex Mayor Sherry Bondy has voiced concern that some businesses near the Maidstone Avenue and Talbot Street North construction project have seen a significant drop in sales. The intersection and several approaches remain closed during construction, with detours in place, but businesses in the area continue to be accessible and open to customers. Bondy said multiple owners have reached out to her since work began earlier this month, adding the challenges come after years of economic pressures. “They’re saying that sales are down 40 per cent. Some of them are looking at changes to staffing schedules, and it’s just one thing after another for businesses,” she said. Bondy is urging residents to make an extra effort to visit businesses in the construction zone, even if detours add a few minutes to their trip. She said the town is also working on a promotional campaign with the Essex Centre BIA and economic development staff. “The marketing plan hasn’t been released yet, but we are looking to see how we can push businesses out there,” Bondy said. Maybe there will be deals or specials or taglines like ‘It’s not that far.’ In the meantime, we’re doing everything we can to get this construction project done as soon as possible.“ Improvements to the Maidstone-Talbot intersection include new turning lanes, upgraded traffic signals, watermain and storm sewer replacements, roadway reconstruction, and new pedestrian and cycling infrastructure. She the Town of Essex is growing and drivers should notice improved vehicle movement once the work is complete. “This intersection did not have a proper turning lanes. So we will be able to get people through smoother and faster and it’ll be an actual engineered intersection that is bigger,” said Bondy. Construction is expected to continue through the fall, with substantial completion anticipated in November. According to Bondy, staff have also created a dedicated construction feedback section through the town’s online “report a problem” portal to quickly address concerns from residents and businesses.
