They’re typically small businesses, what reason do they have to lie about business being down?

I’m sure they have the data, and I’m sure if a local government or journalist wanted to, they could look at tax records to see revenue impact

I don’t think anyone would argue that such enhancements are a bad thing in the long run if 1) If the enhancements ultimately bring in more shoppers/customers, 2) there is still parking available in the area, and 3) the businesses can survive 6-12 months of reduced revenues

My response was really directed at comments implying that the businesses are essentially whining. There’s a very real impact during construction, and certain businesses could be hurt by reduced parking, particularly in the states where the car is king

In defense of business owners, when their customers are trained from birth to drive everywhere, their customers expect parking. When there is no parking, they lose business

Every major US city receives immense backlash from local businesses when roads/parking are unavailable due to added bike lanes, traffic calming projects that reduce parking, or much-needed major construction projects such as water main or sewer work. This is happening right now in downtown Burlington, VT, for example

https://m.sevendaysvt.com/news/main-street-construction-is-hurting-burlington-businesses-43270506

There’s no easy answer in most cases

US law mandates retirement at 56 for Air Traffic Controllers due to the high stress and fast-paced multi-tasking nature of the job

It’s considered one of the most mentally challenging jobs there are.

https://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/5/8335