HOPKINSVILLE, KY (CHRISTIAN COUNTY NOW) – Five days after a winter storm came through Hopkinsville and Christian County, businesses are faced with the dilemma of keeping their doors closed or battling the slick roads and opening to a trickle of patrons. For small and locally owned businesses, this uncertainty has the potential to negatively impact operations.
“When inclement weather forces closures for several days or a week, the effects ripple well beyond the front door of the business,” said Taylor Hayes, Christian County Chamber of Commerce president. “Small businesses are particularly vulnerable. Independent businesses typically lack the reserves larger companies have. Even short closures can create long-term stress.”
Hayes broke down the potential challenges that local businesses can face during extended closures. The cash flow strain can snowball and impact payroll, rent, utilities, and inventory. Incoming deliveries that provide stock to stores and restaurants can also be delayed by poor road conditions, which can lead to further setbacks and scheduling issues.
Many big box stores and chain restaurants in the city opted to remain open or quickly reopened, sometimes shouldering the responsibility of clearing sidewalks or parking lots to accommodate customers.
Since Monday, several local businesses in downtown Hopkinsville on East Ninth Street, Main Street, and East Sixth Street have opened in some capacity. Although plows have worked to clear roads for traffic downtown, street parking and sidewalks may still be impacted by snow accumulation and ice. Plowing on main roads like Fort Campbell Boulevard also allows more businesses to have safe access.
“As conditions improve, we encourage everyone to shop local, dine local, and support the businesses that make our community strong,” said Hayes, adding that the Chamber is able and willing to assist businesses connect with resources and amplify reopening updates. Residents should contact businesses or check social media to confirm their hours before visiting.
| RELATED STORY: Local crews invest over 800 hours into snow fighting efforts in Hopkinsville