Photo courtesy of JUJU’S COFFEE
Editor’s note: This story was updated with additional information at 2:19 p.m. July 13
Customers visiting several businesses at the intersection of Skillman Street and La Vista Drive should anticipate limited parking and sidewalk closures, beginning July 20.
Oncor is starting an infrastructure project that is expected to last for at least six weeks, depending on weather. However, businesses were told work could extend into October, according to JUJU’S COFFEE co-owner Nick Rocha.
“Oncor aims to work as fast as safely possible,” a representative from Oncor said.
The project will update underground service lines to reduce outage risks and ensure long-term service reliability, according to the Oncor representative. Construction will take place in two phases and temporarily eliminate most parking and part of the sidewalks along La Vista Drive.
During the first phase, crews will close the east half of La Vista Drive between Mecca Street and Skillman Street, leading up to JUJU’S COFFEE. The second phase will move to work on the residential side of the street. According to Oncor, as of now this will be the only construction set to take place. While parking will remain unavailable, sidewalks are expected to reopen for pedestrian access.
The construction is expected to affect several businesses on La Vista and Skillman, and Oncor representatives said they notified them on June 23.
Rocha said that his estimated decline in sales could be about 50% during this construction period.
“I am confident in us, I’m confident in our employees, and I’m confident in our customers,” Rocha said. “I’m way more hopeful than frustrated.”
Despite the disruptions, Rocha said businesses are working together to help customers continue visiting the area. Temporary signage directing customers to available parking is planned, and business owners are coordinating with contractors to maintain a safe, accessible pedestrian route, including for those using wheelchairs or strollers.
Juju’s also plans to increase their production of syrups, beans and cold brews that people can take home and make coffee there. The owners will additionally be releasing tutorials on their Instagram page, @jujuscoffee, for how to better brew coffee at home, according to Rocha.
Elizabeth Mast, Talulah and Hess and Oushak Atelier owner, said the construction will greatly impact Oushak Atelier’s momentum and visibility. The store, which opened in April, will have their employees park at Tallulah and Hess to open up parking spots for their neighbors.
“It’s a tough situation for what we’re going to do,” Mast said. “I’m going to have to rely on social media and to really get the word out as we grow that business. I’m fortunate because I’m across the street, and we’re well established, and we could discuss with clients, but it will be a long few months.”
Mast said she wished that the businesses were given more notice but will have to work with other stores to progress through this time.
According to Oncor, all businesses are currently planning to remain open during the construction period. Additional information regarding parking will be provided on Juju’s Coffee’s Instagram, as well as the front of their shop.
“We are appreciative of the community’s patience as we work on this critical infrastructure project,” Oncor’s representative said. “We understand that there are some frustrations, but we are doing everything in our power to be in contact with business owners and making sure that they’re informed about all of the timelines.”
