WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — After 6 months of construction, the highly anticipated 200 block of Clematis Street in downtown West Palm Beach is back open for use.
“I’ve been waiting for these streets to open for a while now,” said resident Ryan Braun.
On Thursday, the city held a ribbon-cutting and to celebrate the occasion.
“Before it was so crowded and the traffic was terrible and it was just hard to maneuver around,” said resident Kay Thomas.
Now the area has a modern feel to it with wider sidewalks for pedestrians, a curdles street design and new landscaping.
“I’m really proud to say they did a fabulous job,” said Sylvia Gildersleeve.
Gildersleeve has worked at the Clematis Street News Stand for the past 17 years.
“I believe with the road being open it will bring a lot more people and that’s what all retail and restaurants is looking for,” said Gildersleeve.
Many businesses along the construction area say they experienced a lull in business when the road was torn up but they have been patient knowing the wait would be worth it.
“Of course a lot of people felt a hit, but you know when you’re in season you put your money away and bank it,” said Gildersleeve.
And it’s not just those who work along Clematis that are banking on these changes, visitors are equally excited.
“It will be great to drive back through towards Bradleys and stuff like that,” said resident Bethany Morris.
The 100 block of Clematis is still under construction with that phase expected to wrap up in December 2019.
