Different perspectives on the business impacts of Hennepin Avenue construction

Construction chaos in Uptown Minneapolis has small business owners feeling the impact as crews work on a crucial corridor. While some businesses are thriving despite the dust and noise, others are struggling to stay afloat.

Robert Sorenson, owner of Bobby Beads, is pleasantly surprised by the positive impact on his business. “We are feeling pretty good. We had more business than we expected,” said Sorenson. Customers are going the extra mile, quite literally, to support their favorite shops, with some walking several blocks to reach their destination.

However, not all businesses are faring as well. La Bodega Taco Bar owner Alex Rosario reports a significant drop in sales, with delivery drivers canceling orders due to the construction. “This is not the way to boost businesses in Uptown,” Rosario lamented.

On the other hand, Uncommon Grounds Coffee House owner Dale Lee remains optimistic, seeing the construction as a short-term inconvenience for long-term gain. “The whole area, I think will look really slick and modern and I think it will make all the properties, it will set them off better,” said Lee.

As the construction project progresses, with plans to move north on Hennepin Avenue in 2025, the neighborhood is bracing for more disruptions. Despite the challenges, business owners like Sorenson and Lee are hopeful that the end result will be worth the temporary inconvenience.