Sarasota shop owner tells commission construction has cut business about half; city offers follow‑up

A shop owner and restaurant operator told the City Commission during public comment that ongoing construction along a nearby corridor has reduced her business by roughly half and left her facing large monthly losses.

Andrea Roncini described operating a cafe and shop for more than three years and said work on the project has deterred regular customers and reduced morning rush‑hour traffic. She estimated losses of $100,000–$150,000 during the construction period and said closure would also affect her immigration status under an E‑2 investor visa.

"I'm not gonna make it. I mean, I'm going to close the store soon," Roncini said, asking whether the city could help with temporary measures such as procurement of business for city offices or other support.

Commissioner Robinson and staff responded that signs had been installed to indicate businesses remain open and offered to meet with the owner following the meeting to explore options; a staff member later said engineering staff had prepared signage and that a follow‑up meeting would be scheduled.

The comment was recorded during the public‑comment portion of the meeting; no formal city program or financial relief was authorized at the hearing, but staff committed to follow up with the business owner and to coordinate additional outreach.