South side construction project making life tough on neighbors, nearby businesses

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A south side construction project is making life tough on neighbors and nearby businesses.

Greenfield Avenue is down to one lane from 35th Street to Cesar Chavez Drive.

The project to improve the road quality and make it safer for drivers and pedestrians began in March.

The Department of Public Works says it’s anticipated to wrap up in November.

In the meantime, businesses like Pete’s Fruit Market and Villa’s Place are taking a hit.

“Last year when it was the summer season we used to get a lot of customers come a lot more often so I feel like even for the people in the neighborhood it’s a little bit difficult to get here,” said Yesi Perez, the manager of Pete’s.

Perez says they’re relying on their regular customers while parking is limited and only one lane of traffic is open.

Alfredo Villa owns Villa’s Place, the bar across the street from Pete’s.

At first glance, it’s difficult to even tell how to get to the entrance.

He says his business has fallen by half.

Some people who live in homes on the construction route must walk several blocks just to cross the street.