Roadwork on Lincoln Avenue in the center of the square influences local businesses and prompts discussions about creating more areas exclusively for pedestrians.

CHICAGO (WLS) — Construction closes a dense block of Lincoln Avenue.

For some, it’s been good for business, but it’s also presented challenges for others.

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Deliveries are getting in, but it took some adjustments.

The construction project along Lincoln Avenue has closed the street at the heart of the neighborhood’s business corridor.

Some people on foot now appreciate the open space.

“I’ve been enjoying my time here immensely; almost every day is spent working and reading outdoors. In just one week, I’ve connected with more neighbors than I have in my entire five years of living in Chicago,” shared Rony Islam, a member of the Heart of Lincoln Square Neighbors Association.

For the businesses, the closure is having mixed results.

The Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce did a survey, and about half of the businesses responded.

It found sales during the street closure, for 13 business, were down. For eight, sales were up. And, for three, it was unchanged.

“The situation is a bit of a mixed bag; while restaurants have seen a positive impact, retailers have struggled,” explained Rudy Flores, who serves as the president and CEO of the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce. “Retailers, in particular, have experienced a drop in sales. Despite increased weekend sales, a few businesses have reported a significant 50% decrease in their overall sales.”

The owner of Timeless Toys said sales have been down 15%.

“Our weekend was quite busy, but the weekdays were slow due to rainy weather. Despite ample parking availability in the vicinity, the rain discouraged people from walking over,” voiced Scott Friedland.

Restaurants like Jerry’s Sandwiches were slammed over the weekend, especially with the nice weather.

The staff is preparing for another busy weekend.

“We’ll have our running shoes ready. We’ve already added extra bodies to make sure we are set up for success, but I think it’s going to be another busy weekend,” floor manager Bonnie Rae Manierre said.

The Chamber will collect more data to see how more pedestrian space could work for businesses and people living in the neighborhood.

The closure is expected to be in place for at least another week.

But the discussion about options for more pedestrian-only spaces for Lincoln Square is ongoing.