The practice laps for Formula-E drivers and TV cameras started early on Friday so broadcasters could ADJUST their shots, but the bigger adjustment has been for local businesses.
CJAD 800 went out to check the pulse of businesses near the racetrack. The situation isn’t dire for everyone, but layers of fences, cement barriers and road closures have had a negative impact over the last several days.
A number of hair dressers, a psychologist and other businesses dependent on client appointments began seeing less business as the number of street closures and barricades increased.
On René Lévesque, bistro La Diva has been suffering since resurfacing started about a month ago. Even a beautiful new patio practically pressed up against the racetrack fence has failed to draw in customers.
To help, the city found them a tent inside the race village, but even that will leave them short.
“They stopped the traffic (along René Lévesque) and then it was the ‘one-laners,’ then they started building (fences and grandstands) and it just got worse and worse,” said the restaurant’s manager.
While the barricades and traffic chaos have stopped some locals from heading out, nearby businesses remain hopeful that the big race will bring them big crowds.