Oltorf construction concerns businesses

AUSTIN (KXAN) - A construction project on East Oltorf street in south Austin is set to give the road a major upgrade. The project runs from 1-35 to South 1st street.

But business owners in the area say they are paying the price for progress.   

Gloria Rocha Owns a fabric store passed down through her family for generations. The store, located on East Oltorf opened up 46 years ago, but now business is far from usual.

The construction project right outside her front door is driving her customers away.

"Theyre telling me that it's so hard to get here now," says Rocha. "I would say business has been effected about 30 to 35 percent."

She says the project has been underway for nearly 2 years. Just last week crews had to close both lanes on  Oltorf to install a new water line. For Rocha it's an inconvenience that is causing her to become impatient.

"I'm saying get it done now we cannot wait that long it's effecting everyone its not just us." says Rocha.

The sound of jackhammers in the air is causing headaches for other business too like Curra's grill right down the road. A loss of business isn't their only concern.

"We've had water disconnection and some utilities cut off, they knocked our sign down, and even block all our entrances." says Jorge Garcia, owner of Curra's Grill.

Customers say while grabbing a meal  the commotion caused by the construction creates a change in ambience.

"It's really uncomfortable sitting here having a nice meal and having all these construction machines roar in your ear," says Senem Guney, a regular at Curra's.

For businesses it's been a long journey but they says they're thankful to their loyal customers. The city says they hope to have the project complete by 2013.