More worries from businesses over Central Corridor construction

St. Paul business owners along University Avenue are worried light rail construction means revenue losses that may force them to close.

Several say the $1.5 million loan fund created to allow them to borrow up to $10,000 each isn't enough.

Va-Megn Thoj said members of the University Avenue Business Association are worried light rail construction will cause a drop in business resulting in a loss of jobs.

"The businesses are asking their elected officials to delay the project until a compensation fund is created for small businesses on the avenue," Thoj said. "Businesses are ready to work with the new Republican leadership at both the state level and the federal level, and Democrat leadership as well."

Jim Segal, owner of Ax-Man Surplus, said business owners along the Central Corridor light rail line expect some loss of revenue, but don't have enough of their own money to survive years of disruption.

"I'm just looking for some kind of financial support to help us get through the project," Segal said. "You know I accept the fact that my income, may have a negative impact on it, but I want to stay here, and obviously a compensation plan is going to have to be effective."