Los Angeles

Struggling Businesses Get Money During Construction Project

The funds are part of a pilot program by the LADWP to help out during long periods of construction

Businesses in Los Angeles are getting a payday from the Los Angeles Department of Power and Water during a period of construction in North Hollywood.

The construction of a major water trunk line along Lankershim Boulevard, which will bring better water pressure to businesses and residents in the area, is expected to be completed in three years. Councilman Paul Krekorian and members of the LADWP presented checks of up to $18,000 Thursday to local stores to help them stay in the business.

Construction has blocked parking access to many businesses, driving them close to closure.

Mariana Cruz Garcia, whose family-run antique furniture store sits in the construction zone, lost 90 percent of their business after construction began. Garcia said her family had 12 dollars in their bank account and she had to leave college to help out.

“My parents stay up all night,” said Garcia. “It’s such an emotional obstacle too because they are trying everything they can.”

Out of the 26 businesses who applied for money, half received a check on Thursday. The funds, which come out of the construction budget, are part of a pilot project by the government to help businesses during large construction projects.

“I don’t think it’s feasible to be able to help businesses with every inconvenience that comes with paving a street,” said Councilman Krekorian.“But this is a very different category.”

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