WASHINGTON — Several business owners testified in front of the D.C. Council on Monday, asking for financial relief after they said a major construction project had contributed to plummeting sales.
New sidewalks, bike lanes, new trees and tree boxes and a new road surface along Connecticut Avenue Northwest in Dupont Circle are part of a $37 million project. The construction zone has been sitting in front of businesses in the 1700 block for months, and business owners said it has been devastating.
“If you know anyone trying to buy a kidney, I’d gladly sell one,” said owner of The Golden Age cocktail bar Jeff Coles. “I will do whatever I can. I’ve stopped paying myself, I’ve taken on personal high-interest loans. I’m doing whatever I can to try and fight for my business and for my employees.”…