I-75 Exit 20 Businesses Hurt By Road Work

No one enjoys sitting in traffic and most drivers will do just about anything to avoid it.

"The word is out there to avoid this exit. That's the worst part," says Ike Plemons, manager of the Fireworks Supermarket.

A sign on Interstate-75 near exit 20 is telling drivers to avoid the exit altogether.

Business owners say that's hurting business.

"Yeah, we're down probably 20-25%," says John Brewer, owner of Brewer's Exxon.

Brewer and Plemons both depend on business from Exit 20, the first Cleveland exit outside of Chattanooga.

The overpass in front of their shops is going through major repairs.

The two merchants don't have a problem with the construction-which is much needed- but they do have a problem with the timing.

"The bigger retailers, they look forward to Christmas. This is our Christmas," says Brewer.

Adds Plemons, "This is our go time. This is our Superbowl."

Both men say the congestion on the bridge and the ramps has affected their bottom-line, at a time when interstate commerce is at it's peak.

"The last time you were on the freeway, you don't want to stop somewhere where theres a lot of construction. You'll just go to the next exit," says Plemons.

Cleveland Mayor Tom Rowland says a little bit of relief is coming for these exit 20 businesses--just in time for the 4th of July weekend.

The bridge will open up June 24th and stay open through the holiday.

"Although it's unfortunate that the work has to take place at this time, we still appreciate the state for making these safety improvements," says Rowland. "Hopefully it can be opened up for a better flow of traffic through that period of time."