‘They're just staying away’: Colfax businesses struggle amid BRT construction

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Businesses on Colfax are in trouble.

As construction of the bus rapid transit line down Colfax continues, eateries and retailers along the corridor say they’re feeling the effects in the form of reduced sales and fewer customers.

“They’re just staying away from this area altogether because of the construction,” said Maud Schaefer, the second-generation owner of Tommy’s Thai.

Schaefer said revenue at Tommy’s Thai has dropped 25-35%, forcing her to make some difficult decisions.

“We’ve cut a lot,” Schaefer says. “And the people that work here are family or they’re friends.”

The restaurant at 3410 E. Colfax Ave. did receive a one-time payment, of