Watch CBS News

Business Owners Brace For Greenfield Bridge Closure

GREENFIELD (KDKA) – Monday marks the beginning of the first full week without the Greenfield Bridge.

That means traffic delays and detours for the 15,000 or so vehicles that use the bridge every day for the next two years.

"I'm going to say more or less when you are leaving work, then getting to work, we just hope everybody keeps in mind and adds some more driving time," said Pittsburgh Councilman Corey O'Connor.

O'Connor and Greenfield business owners are worried about the impact the closing will have on business.

Matthew Hough operates Hough's Tap Room and Brew Pub on Greenfield Avenue. He hopes long lines of traffic won't discourage customers.

"It could take people longer to get here, as well too," said Hough. "They might want to do that or they might want to stay downtown a little bit more or they might want to stay in an area to avoid traffic."

The Swinburne Bridge is one of the key alternative routes between Greenfield and Oakland. When drivers come across the bridge and turn left, they'll go right towards part of the Greenfield business district.

That means thousands of vehicles will pass by Hough's and other businesses every day. O'Connor thinks the increased traffic could be a positive and offers drivers one request.

"Stop if you are going to have a longer drive anyways," he said. "Why not stop in and help one of our local businesses?"

Saturday the city held a bridge party with proceeds going towards Greenfield businesses and the city is also offering grants and funding through the area.

Business owners think time will tell how they'll be affected by the closing of the bridge.

Join The Conversation On The KDKA Facebook Page
Stay Up To Date, Follow KDKA On Twitter

View CBS News In
CBS News App Open
Chrome Safari Continue
Be the first to know
Get browser notifications for breaking news, live events, and exclusive reporting.