Downtown business owners ask council for help as Main Street construction affects parking and access

Owners near the Main Street construction told council July 15 that ongoing roadway work has reduced parking and complicated customer access at multiple businesses, and they asked whether the city could provide financial assistance similar to programs other jurisdictions used during major state projects.

Kevin Kraft, owner of Old Pioneer Press, said construction began immediately in front of his store and has repeatedly interfered with customers reaching his business. Bobby Henderson, a local business owner, and Callie Bowers, who formerly operated an RV park in Nephi, discussed examples of other projects where state or UDOT-related programs provided temporary financial assistance to fronting businesses during prolonged construction.

City staff acknowledged the hardship and asked owners to provide specific documentation and any correspondence with state agencies (UDOT/UDOT‑related programs). Staff said the city currently has no dedicated funds to reimburse businesses under the present project funding, but that the planning and administration team would review whether any federal, state, or grant programs could be pursued to assist affected storefronts. Staff also suggested short-term measures—temporary crosswalks and improved signage—could be considered.

Ending: Staff asked business owners to provide documentation and contact staff directly so the city can research available programs and coordinate with state partners where possible; the council did not commit city funds but offered staff assistance in exploring options.