Second Street Construction Has Forced Business Closures

Local establishments on Rochester’s Second Street have shuttered following revenue losses linked to transit work.

Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Isometric editorial illustration of a concrete traffic barrier blocking an empty storefront entrance, representing urban infrastructure impact. — Ongoing road construction on Rochester's Second Street has led to significant revenue losses and permanent closures for several local businesses. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Long-term bus rapid transit construction on Rochester's Second Street has led several local businesses to close their doors permanently. The road work has caused significant drops in revenue and customer traffic for nearby shops and eateries.

Why it matters

The construction is part of the massive Destination Medical Center project designed to support Mayo Clinic visitors and local population growth. However, small businesses are struggling to survive the prolonged infrastructure upgrades.

The Destination Medical Center project carries a $5.6 billion budget over 20 years. Meanwhile, Cafe Steam reported a 30 to 40 percent drop in customers at its Second Street location.

The players

Destination Medical Center

This is a 20-year economic development initiative in Rochester intended to foster growth and support the Mayo Clinic.

Thesis Beer Project

This local brewery and restaurant cited a 50 percent revenue loss due to the ongoing construction project.

City of Rochester

The local municipal government is managing the transit construction project and providing resources to affected businesses.

The details

Construction crews are currently rebuilding the road using cranes, trucks, and concrete barricades, which has hindered customer access to the area. While the city of Rochester hosts weekly virtual meetings for business owners, some retailers have already moved or closed, with at least one additional closure expected later this year.

March 2025 marked the start of construction disruptions for Spyhouse Coffee Roasters.
March 2026 saw the closure of the Tinn's Grilled Philly Steak Subs location.
August 2026 marked the permanent closure of Thai-riffic and Thesis Beer Project.
August 2027 is the scheduled completion date for the bus rapid transit line.

Market Landscape

The construction on Second Street is part of the Destination Medical Center project, which sets a multi-decade urban renewal path for Rochester. This shift forces a transition from existing local storefronts toward a larger, transit-oriented commercial corridor.

Residents and customers should expect ongoing traffic detours as work on the bus rapid transit line continues through next year. Those looking to support remaining businesses can check the city's interactive website for the latest updates on street access.

The takeaway

Small businesses in developing corridors often face existential threats during long-term infrastructure projects. Owners are encouraged to engage with local municipal support programs to monitor project timelines and access resources.