We all know businesses everywhere are struggling, but those along Cleveland Street have an added complication – ongoing and often, annoying, construction. If you haven’t already experienced this joy of significant road bumps, teeth-jarring pot holes and confusion caused by the myriad traffic barriers and cones, well … you’re NOT in for a treat.
But the chaos is necessary and will eventually come to an end.
And so – cue the 76 trombones in the big parade – enter “Bob the Barrel!”
Bob is the East Gateway District’s new mascot, presented by the Clearwater East Gateway Business and Neighbors Association.
Bob will highlight businesses along Cleveland Street with daily “Orange Barrel Specials” and his bright, happy face will pop up at events at restaurants and retailers along the construction corridor.
For instance, Bob will present his saucy self on Cinco de Mayo (May 5th for you gringos) at Hacienda Corralejo Mexican Kitchen at 1238 Cleveland Street.
You can help Bob help local businesses during construction by visiting participating businesses, including Billy Bricks, Charlie’s Sushi, DeLukas Restaurant and Bar, Hacienda Corralejo Mexican Kitchen, Juli’s Restaurant, Nature’s Food Patch, Philly Joe’s, Rock Pizza Subs, and Señor Subs & Gyros.
You can also follow Bob on the Clearwater East Gateway Business and Neighbors Association Facebook page to find out more about when and where to find “Orange Barrel Specials”
And coming soon… Bob’s companion – Barbara the Barrel! Sheila Neisler, Owner of Catalyst Tampa Bay, said, “Barbara will get her hair and nails done and also promote businesses in Clearwater’s East Gateway area.”
The City of Clearwater will be making improvements to roadways on Cleveland Street from Missouri Avenue east to San Remo Avenue and on Gulf to Bay Boulevard from Cleveland Street southeast to Court Street/Highland Avenue as part of the Cleveland Streetscape Phase III Project in the Downtown Clearwater-CRA project.
Construction on the project began on July 26, 2021 and residents were cautioned to expect delays and lane shifts during the much-anticipated safety and beautification project.
Traffic continues in both directions and access to business and residential driveways are maintained. All businesses will remain open throughout the project planned for completion in January 2023. Bus stop locations may also shift and will be clearly marked. Work will take place Monday through Friday from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. during the project.
Stay up to date on Cleveland Streetscape Phase III Project construction news and see construction plans, renderings and more at myclearwater.com/streetscape.
And don’t forget to support the Gateway businesses and keep your eyes peeled for Bob! If you’re very lucky, he may just pose for a photo with you!
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