Downtown Naples businesses upset with construction project

NAPLES, Fla.- Some businesses in downtown Naples are upset with the city for allowing the Inn On 5th to remodel the hotel. They said the construction is having a huge impact on their business this holiday season.

The construction along 5th Avenue is supposed to spruce up the Inn On 5th, but one business owner nearby tells WINK News it’s hurting his bottom line.

“Eighty percent down. Which in the biggest week of the Christmas time, you know we’re suppose to make money during this time,” said Ron Ruli, the owner of Roma Bistro and Pizzeria.

“Usually we’re a very busy place. We are very very down in sales,” said Ruli. “You can see no one nobody want to sit outside because it’s so dusty and noisy.”

He wants to know why the city gave the hotel permission to do the remodel this month. “You’re suppose to do it in September or October when it’s very slow but not now.”

“This happens to be the slowest, relatively slow time, for the hotels so that’s why the hotel wanted to do it this time of the year,” said Mayor John Sorey.

Ruli said he’s also concerned about the sidewalk being closed off during the day. “It’s not the proper way to do construction.”

But Mayor Sorey said he checked it out himself and the company is working under the terms of their permit.

He tells WINK News that when it’s all said and done the upgrades being done at the hotel will only bring more business to everyone. “If we can get guests in the hotels I think that’s good for all street as well as and especially the businesses adjacent to the hotel.”

Mayor Sorey tells WINK News the construction is expected to be finished next week.