Ormond-by-the-Sea restaurant says A1A construction is hurting business

ORMOND-BY-THE-SEA, Fla. - A Volusia County restaurant says an ongoing road construction project has sharply reduced its parking and is hurting business, while state transportation officials say the changes are intended to improve safety for drivers and pedestrians.

Lagerheads Bar and Grill in Ormond-by-the-Sea says construction along State Road A1A has reduced the number of parking spaces available near the restaurant from 45 to 12.

What they're saying:

Employee Brianna Brannan said business has declined since the Florida Department of Transportation began work that includes new crosswalks, curbs and a shared-use path along the roadway.

"Everybody’s driving past us, and they think we’re closed," Brannan said.

The restaurant says the construction has contributed to one of its slowest periods during the middle of the summer. Some regular customers also expressed concern that the construction could discourage people unfamiliar with the restaurant from stopping.

Others said customers can still find parking behind and beside the restaurant and encouraged people to be patient while construction continues.

The other side:

FDOT said it discussed the planned changes with the restaurant’s owner before construction began. The agency said existing parking along A1A is being removed to improve safety and make room for a shared-use path, curb and gutter. The affected parking spaces are within FDOT’s right of way, according to the agency.

What's next:

Construction is expected to continue for about another year, according to the report. FDOT representatives also visited the restaurant to discuss possible options for adding more parking.

Despite the construction, the restaurant remains open and wants customers to know they can still visit.

The Source: This story was written based on information shared by the Florida Department of Transportation, employees and patrons of Lagerheads Bar and Grill in Ormond-by-the-Sea.

Volusia County News