‘We're open for business:' Fairport village workers move forward despite Rt. 250 construction

Yahoo

15-04-2025

FAIRPORT, N.Y. (WROC) — Construction is now underway in Fairport involving a near $3.5 million bridge replacement along Rt. 250.
News 8's Natalie Kucko caught up with business owners Monday to learn how they are managing, as the work is expected to take several months to complete.
The New York State Department of Transportation is replacing the 90-year-old bridge that runs under Main Street, over Thomas Creek, and into the village.
'At this point in time, we've weathered many of the storms whether the lift bridge was closed, railroad construction, and now the Thomas Creek culvert being replaced. We've lived it. We've been here, and we're going to be here for many years to come,' said Doug Sharp, owner of RV&E Bike and Skate.
With the construction expected to bring its challenges, business owners are staying optimistic.
According to the DOT, work is expected to last about four months total. As part of the project, new sidewalks will be installed, along with ADA compliant curb ramps.
'It's one more adjustment. It's one more thing we've got to roll with. I mean, with business owners, [it's] forever. But, especially the past five years, we have really had to roll with punches and roll with things that change rapidly and adjust to things on the fly and figure out ways to bring people and get our product out there and get ourselves out there,' said Sean McSherry, owner of Junction361 Cafe.
The section of Rt. 250 is situated north of Fairport's Lift Bridge. Business owners News 8 heard from say they are spreading the word to customers and assuring that access to the village won't change.
'You have to make sure you market it to your customers, so that they know we are still open and we're working very hard. The most recent was the Lift Bridge construction, and we really did not lose any businesses over that time period. That was a much longer period of time over many different circumstances. So, we're confident with the Fairport businesses to be strong. We're still open for business. Come see us and support us,' said Sharp.
As the work is expected to run through event season, Sharp added some vendors along North Main Street that would normally set up for Canal Days in June will relocate to other parts of the village to help accommodate traffic.
While construction lasts, drivers are asked to follow detours posted along Whitney, Turk Hill, and Ayrault Roads.
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