After the end of a road construction project that had caused nearly five months of disruption to local businesses, including a champagne bar, Grand Rapids’ Eastown district is seeing a recovery. The Kingsley Building’s Pursuit of Happiness Co. is celebrating with a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a group champagne toast.
The proprietor of the eccentric champagne bar, Wendy Wassink, thought back on the tenacity and willpower that enabled her company to weather the protracted disruption. Wassink told FOX 17 that “business has been really good and we’ve been celebrating for over a week.” Given that establishments like Wassink’s saw a sharp decline in foot traffic, the long-awaited completion of construction is a relief. “We’ve seen a 50% decrease in business since the construction started,” she stated.
A new water main was installed, lead water lines were replaced, and streets were milled and resurfaced as part of the extensive roadwork that ran from Lake Drive to Plymouth Avenue. Even though the infrastructure improvements put a burden on nearby companies, the Michigan Department of Transportation’s $3.5 million investment, in addition to funds from the cities of Grand Rapids and East Grand Rapids, was deemed necessary. WOODTV reported that during the building phase, city officials had asked the public to keep patronizing local businesses, such as Matchbox Diner, Argos Comics and Books, and Fruition.
Wassink revealed the increased sense of community solidarity that grew during the difficult time in an interview with WZZM 13. “At times, honestly, we were not sure we were going to make it, but we did, and we feel like survivors,” she stated. The proprietor credited the perseverance of her employees, as well as the ongoing assistance of devoted patrons and other local business owners, for her bar’s survival during the road closure.
In a relaxed and welcoming setting, Pursuit of Happiness Co. provides a range of choices, from classic bubbly to expertly made spritz cocktails. “In the absence of small companies, the community lacks interest. Wassink told WOODTV, “That’s where a lot of the personality comes in,” emphasizing the value of ongoing support for local businesses, particularly when faced with challenges.
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