Lane closures have businesses worrying on Market St.

PORTER’S NECK, NC (WWAY) — Lane closures in the Porter’s Neck area have been slowing down traffic for drivers and businesses. The NCDOT says the lanes will remain closed for at least another month and now businesses are starting to worry.

“It has really taken a hit on our business,” said the owner of Trulie Dogs, Treesie Paradis.

Paradis says the closures on Market Street are affecting more than just drivers.

“It’s definitely discouraged people from wanting to come north of Ogden,” said the owner of Side Arm Surf and Skate, Phil Luther.

According to DOT spokesman Brian Rick, the project is a partnership between the DOT, New Hanover County and the developer of the Walmart coming into the area. The DOT has been encouraging people to use alternate routes.

“And when all of the DOT signs started going up in every direction, it was just avoid this area, heavy congestion. It got really bad,” said Paradis.

Local businesses are worried those warnings will cut into their profits.

“If it wasn’t for grooming right now, I’d probably have to close my doors,” said Paradis.

Businesses are doing everything they can to combat the traffic and let folks know they are still open.

“And we’re just trying to update our customers on whether it’s moving or not, through Facebook and social media,” said Luther.

The DOT says the lanes will be closed for at least another month, with the project scheduled to be completed by May.

“We just hope they get it taken care of by summertime when the tourist traffic gets here and it’s even worse,” said Luther.