Local business owner 'frustrated' with continued construction

Incredibly frustrated.

That is how Greencastle small business owner Brittany Overshiner sums up her feelings after another round of construction and what she calls a lack of communication.

"After the last two years, I am incredibly frustrated and, honestly, worn down. The ongoing lack of communication around construction and road closures has been deeply discouraging, especially when those decisions directly impact my boutique, my customers and my livelihood," Overshiner told The Putnam County Post. 

Overshiner, who owns Britt's Blooming Boutique on South Indiana Street, recently approached the Greencastle City Council to air her frustrations, pointing out the fact that a woman was injured falling on unshoveled sidewalks at Indiana and Washington streets during the Frost Friday celebration earlier this month. 

In addition, Overshiner pointed out the fact that construction on Indiana Street for party lights has had a negative impact on her business, citing orange cones, tape and construction equipment giving off an image that the street and sidewalks are closed. 

Overshiner said what has been the hardest is feeling unheard and overlooked, noting it is as if the "real day-to-day effects on small businesses aren't fully understood by those making the decisions."

"I've tried to speak up, but it often feels like my voice isn't reaching the people who have the ability to make meaningful change," she said. 

Overshiner admitted it is "much tougher now" being a small business owner in Greencastle after Covid and years of constant construction.

"Keeping the doors open feels like a daily uphill battle. As small business owners, we are constantly adjusting to rising costs, declining foot traffic, and disruptions that are completely outside of our control. What makes it especially difficult is feeling like we are expected to absorb the impact without real consideration or communication. This business isn't just a storefront, it is years of work, sacrifice and personal investment, and right now, it often feels like we are fighting just to stay visible, let alone sustainable," Overshiner said. 

At the meeting, Greencastle Mayor Lynda Dunbar, who once owned a small business downtown, said the city can post street closures on its Facebook page, while pointing out the Main Street Greencastle Board has been holding quarterly meetings and could also provide updates in the future. 

"I would like to see immediate, clear and consistent communication, along with a genuine commitment to including small business owners before decisions are made, not after. Advance notice about construction schedules, road closures and access changes isn't just helpful, it is necessary for our survival," Overshiner said. 

Overshiner said there are "viable solutions" Greencastle officials could offer. She cited improved signage to guide customers to open businesses, better coordination to minimize prolonged disruptions and direct responsive channels where business owners can be heard as examples. 

"Small businesses are resilient, but we can't continue to absorb these impacts without meaningful support and action," Overshiner said.