The Destination Medical Center (DMC) Board voted to provide the City of Rochester with a $500,000 contingency grant aimed at mitigating the impact of the Link Bus Rapid Transit (LinkBRT) construction on local businesses. The funding, announced in a DMC news release, will be used for flexible outreach, visibility, targeted marketing, promotions and customer‑traffic initiatives along the 2.8‑mile fare‑free bus corridor.
Construction context and challenges
LinkBRT construction began in June of last year and reached the 50 percent completion mark last month. Crews are working primarily along 2nd St. SW, where temporary closures have limited access for storefronts and patrons. The project is slated to continue through the late summer of 2027.
“Major construction creates real challenges for businesses that need to remain visible, accessible and connected to their customers,” said DMC Board chair Pam Wheelock. “This investment gives the City and project team additional resources to respond as conditions change and provide support where it is needed most. Helping businesses successfully navigate construction is essential to the long‑term success of Link and the corridor it will serve.”
How the grant will be used
The $500,000 grant is designed to be flexible, allowing Rochester officials to tailor assistance to the specific needs of affected merchants. Planned actions include:
- Coordinated outreach to inform businesses of upcoming disruptions and available resources.
- Enhanced signage and way‑finding to maintain customer visibility during street closures.
- Targeted marketing campaigns promoting affected businesses to residents and transit riders.
- Customer‑traffic initiatives such as pop‑up events, shuttle services or temporary parking solutions.
City staff will work closely with the DMC project team to monitor construction progress and adjust support measures as conditions evolve.
Local business impact
Eight Rochester businesses closed during the summer of 2026, underscoring the urgency of the city’s mitigation efforts. While some merchants have adapted by expanding online sales or adjusting hours, many rely on foot traffic that the construction has temporarily reduced.
City officials expect the grant to help prevent further closures and to preserve jobs in the corridor. By maintaining a vibrant commercial environment, the city aims to protect the tax base and sustain the economic vitality that the LinkBRT project ultimately seeks to enhance.
Looking ahead
The LinkBRT corridor is projected to improve regional mobility, reduce congestion and support sustainable growth once completed. The DMC’s financial commitment reflects a broader strategy of aligning infrastructure development with community‑focused economic support.
Rochester residents and business owners are encouraged to stay informed through city communications and to participate in upcoming public‑information sessions hosted by the DMC and the City of Rochester.
Original reporting: News Talk 1340 KROC-AM – News and Talk – Rochester News Radio — read the source article.
