Bill Cox is frustrated. His family-owned mini golf business, Chip’s Clubhouse, in Chardon was hurt by the poor economy last season and now has to contend with a construction project at his doorstep, on Fifth Avenue.

"A lot of people don’t know businesses are open if they can’t easily get to them. It hurts my business, Heinen’s ... it’s just been pretty confusing," he said. "You’ve got to let people know these businesses need to be patronized."

He lamented business being down up to 35 percent from even last year and has heard customers say they don't want to deal with the construction.

"Unless you’re a regular, some people will give up," he said.

The city has allowed him to post special signs at the detours to let people know he is open. Still, one wonders what can be done for the struggling small businessman in such circumstances.

Any government grants that can be awarded on a case-by-case basis specifically for construction-related business decline?

--Betsy Scott, BScott@News-Herald.com