Highway 417: Little Italy business community reacts to disruptions [Video]

Ottawa continues to experience heavy traffic on streets along Highway 417 while city crews replace the Preston Street overpass.

Work began Friday night, kicking off major detours around the construction site. On Saturday, many motorists were trying to avoid the area entirely, and the Little Italy business community has begun to take notice.

“It’s a little bit slower this weekend,” said Dreamland Café owner Coco de Leo. “I think everyone is aware of what’s going on.”

She says when customers do make it in, the traffic is all they can talk about.

“People are stressed about it, but we really try and ease everyone’s stress. We’re giving extra wait times on reservations,” she adds.

Meanwhile, it has been mostly smooth sailing for membership-based businesses like Yogatown, though in their unique case, which is being situated directly next to the overpass, has made it tricky for members to access the building.

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