Downtown Santa Ana businesses face financial hardships as streetcar construction hampers foot traffic, exacerbating the impact of the pandemic.
The once vibrant streets of downtown Santa Ana have been dealt a double blow as businesses grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic and the ongoing streetcar construction. Many local establishments are struggling to stay afloat, with reduced foot traffic compounding their financial woes. Some business owners are accumulating mounting debts, while others have already been forced to shut their doors. As the situation worsens, local leaders are exploring ways to support these businesses, including the implementation of the Business Uninterrupted Monetary Program (BUMP) Act. However, immediate relief is needed to help these establishments survive the challenging times ahead.
A Double Blow: Pandemic and Construction Impact Local Businesses
The pandemic has already taken a toll on businesses worldwide, and Santa Ana is no exception. However, the situation has been further exacerbated by the ongoing streetcar construction in the area. For Maria Perez and her family, who own a juice-and-bagel shop, the construction has turned their once reliable source of income into a financial hardship. Perez’s husband, battling cancer since 2018, continued to work long hours despite undergoing radiation treatments. Yet, even their sacrifices were not enough to cover the mounting bills and $30,000 in back rent owed since April. Perez’s story is just one among many downtown Santa Ana business owners who are struggling to keep their doors open.
Seeking Support: The BUMP Act and Local Initiatives
Recognizing the urgent need for assistance, local elected leaders, including U.S. Rep. Lou Correa, have joined forces to address the issue. They recently embarked on a walk through the affected area, engaging with business owners and discussing the potential impact of the Business Uninterrupted Monetary Program (BUMP) Act. This federal legislation aims to mandate the creation of interruption funds to support businesses affected by construction projects. However, the implementation of such programs may still be a year or two away. In the meantime, local leaders are exploring immediate measures to help businesses generate revenue and weather the storm.
Long-Term Vision, Short-Term Challenges
While the streetcar construction is expected to bring long-term benefits to the community, business owners are concerned about the immediate impact on their livelihoods. Orange County District 5 Supervisor Katrina Foley emphasizes the need to address the short-term challenges faced by businesses that have been a part of the community for decades. Shawn Makhani, owner of Telas Fabric, suggests that attracting customers back to the area requires the creation of community-centric events, such as music festivals, to revive the local economy. Mimi Mar, owner of The Pizza Press, echoes the sentiment, expressing the urgency for immediate assistance to businesses affected by the construction.
Conclusion: As Santa Ana businesses grapple with the aftermath of the pandemic and the challenges posed by the ongoing streetcar construction, the need for support has never been greater. The BUMP Act offers hope for the future, providing a potential lifeline for businesses affected by construction projects. However, immediate relief is crucial to help these establishments survive. By rallying together and implementing short-term initiatives, such as community events and targeted support programs, local leaders and community members can work towards revitalizing downtown Santa Ana and ensuring the long-term success of its businesses.
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