On June 10, we gathered at The Carlisle Community Room for our latest Bridge the Gap meeting — and the energy in the room was a reminder of just how much we're all in this together. Representatives from local businesses, city and county government, ODOT, and key community organizations came together to share updates, troubleshoot challenges, and chart a clear path forward for the businesses most impacted by the Bridge Street project.

Here's a recap of what was covered and what's coming next.

🚧 Project Updates

The good news: things are moving. Here's where things stand on the ground:

• The Mulberry/Riverside intersection is now open.
• The Bridge Street project remains on schedule.
• All related Appalachian Community Grant projects — including the park, armory, and Yoctangee Parkway improvements — are on schedule as well.
• Signal timing at the High/Main/Water intersection has been adjusted to improve traffic flow through the area.
• On the federal funding front, our federal representatives explored whether transportation dollars could accelerate the Bridge Street project. After consulting with ODOT and the Chamber, we determined that the available funds wouldn't move the needle enough to justify the effort. We'll continue to monitor and share any meaningful developments as they arise.

📊 Keeping an Eye on the Numbers

We're watching the economic impact closely. County Auditor Jeff Lehner is monitoring sales tax revenue, given that Bridge Street is a significant contributor to countywide sales tax. Reports indicate sales tax was down $300,000 in March and April. We're tracking this closely and will keep you informed.

📣 "Still Here. Still Open." — Our June Theme

June's message to the community is simple and powerful: our businesses are still here and still open. Watch for window and door clings coming your way to help spread the word loud and clear.

🛠️ Resources Available to You Right Now

We want to make sure every affected business has the tools they need. Here's what's ready and waiting:

• Bridge the Gap Resource Folder — Your go-to hub for toolkits, updates, and resources. Access it here: BTG Resources Folder
• Low-Interest Loan Information — Details on potential low-interest loans from ECDI and the Ohio Valley Regional Development Commission are available in the Google Drive. Please note: there is a limited window to apply for the ECDI loan — don't wait.
• Social Media Toolkit — Sample posts and graphics are ready for you to use. Find them in the BTG Resources Folder.

📲 What the Chamber Is Doing for You

We're not just talking about support — we're actively working it. Here's what we have in the pipeline:

• Google Display Ads are launching in August to promote Bridge the Gap businesses and events. In the meantime, we're increasing Meta ads and social media posts to boost visibility now. We're targeting all of Ross County and specific areas outside the county to woo back our customers.
• Bridge the Gap Coupon Newsletter — Our first digital coupon newsletter will be distributed by the end of June. To get your offer included, email mthrone@chillicotheohio.com — don't miss the deadline!
• "Mythbusters" Video Series — We're tackling misinformation head-on. Look for short, shareable videos that bust the biggest myths about construction projects.
• Business Spotlights & Reels — Keep an eye out for Chamber-produced features highlighting your fellow investors. Share them when you see them!
• Community-Facing Bridge the Gap Page — A dedicated page on the Chamber website will go live by June 19. Check it out at chillicotheohio.com.
• Events Along the Corridors — We're planning a lineup of community events designed to draw foot traffic to affected areas, including a Meet the Paints event, a restaurant-focused "chowdown," and family events with live music. Stay tuned — we'll share details as soon as they're locked in.

💡 What's Working: Inspiration from Your Fellow Businesses

Two of our own are already showing what creative thinking looks like in action:

• Ivy's Home and Garden has been posting Facebook content featuring out-of-town customers who found their way to the shop — a great way to show that people are still coming and shopping local.
• Nourse Automall ran a direct mail campaign with a coupon offer that generated a solid response.

If you've tried something that's working, we want to hear about it. Share your story with us, and we'll amplify it.

⚠️ A Note on Signage

We know many of you want to help guide customers your way — and that's a great instinct. A few important reminders:

• Signs must be placed lawfully. Before putting up any directional signage, call ODOT to confirm proper placement. Signs placed unlawfully will be removed.
• The best place for a sign promoting your business is on your own property.
• We're also working with ODOT to develop better directional signage at the River Trace Lane roundabout to guide customers toward Bridge Street businesses and downtown. More to come on that.

🔄 Permanent Traffic Pattern — Know Before You Go

Once the full Bridge Street project is complete, the traffic pattern in the area will be permanent:

• Northbound traffic from the Walmart/Kohl's area will be routed to the traffic signal at Bridge Street.
• Southbound traffic will be routed through the roundabout, under the underpass, and over to Shawnee Square.
• Planning your routes — and helping your customers plan theirs — now will make the transition smoother for everyone.

📞 ODOT Questions?

If you have specific questions about the construction project, contact Mikaela Bruning at ODOT directly:

📞 740-774-8834

📅 Next Meeting

Thursday, July 9 at the Cork Room inside the Quality Inn — the same location as our first May meeting. We hope to see you there.