NEW ORLEANS (WVUE) – Several French Quarter business owners have filed a lawsuit against the Sewerage and Water Board, saying nine months of construction along Decatur Street has driven away customers and pushed their businesses toward closure.
Frank Gagliano, owner of Frank’s Restaurant, said it is now rare to seat customers at any of his 20 tables. He said that large fencing blocks street access, that employees have quit, and that he has dealt with sewer backups throughout the construction.
“There’s no business; it’s like a war zone,” Gagliano said.
When asked how much longer he could survive under the current conditions, Gagliano said, “I’m ready to close it now. Why stay open? We’re losing every month, and you have to dig or take it from somewhere else. It’s out of control with no help.”
Losses in the millions
Christina Marullo, whose family owns the French Market Restaurant, said the financial damage has been severe…