TX: Light-rail Work a Burden on Businesses; Owners Along 3 Lines Say Even Metro's Aid May Not Save Shops
Before Metro light-rail construction started on Fulton Street last year, Trevino & Sons Funeral Home conducted about five burial services each week.
Victor Gomez Sr. said a 60 percent drop in his shoe repair business at 5216 Harrisburg forced him to start driving a taxi this summer.
"The bills keep coming," he said.
Alida Rodriguez, who owns Falcon Groceries at Main and Boundary with her husband, retired Houston Police Sgt. George V. Rodriguez, said she'd sell the business but can't find a buyer during the construction.
"I can't even find my panic button," she said.
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LIGHT RAIL EXPANSION
The Metropolitan Transit Authority is continuing work on three lines - East End, North and Southeast - of its light rail expansion. The University and Uptown lines remain on the drawing board.
STATUS OF THREE LINES UNDER CONSTRUCTION
Phase 1
Underground utility installation
North Line Ends Spring 2012
Southeast Line In progress
East End Line Ends Spring 2012
Phase 2
Road widening
North Line Ends Summer 2012
Southeast Line Ends Fall 2012
East End Line Ends Summer 2012
Phase 3
Guideway placement
North Line In progress
Southeast Line In progress
East End Line In progress
Phase 4
Stations, landscaping
North Line Opening mid 2014
Southeast Line Opening in 2014
East End Line Opening mid 2014
Source: Metropolitan Transit Authority
