Heartfelt Farewell: 30 Years of Business Lost to Road Construction

The Dream That Was Galaxy Pawn

In 1995, Gail and Bill Roberts realized their dream of working together as a husband-and-wife team by purchasing and operating Galaxy Pawn. Over the years, they transformed their customer base into an extended family, with patrons affectionately calling them “nana” and “papa.” Their business in Lubbock, Texas, thrived for almost three decades, becoming a community cornerstone.

The Unforeseen Impact of Road Construction

However, in June 2022, the commencement of the $25 million construction project on 19th Street marked the beginning of challenging times for Galaxy Pawn. The project’s scope included rebuilding roadway portions, updating drainage systems, sidewalks, and traffic signals—efforts necessary for road infrastructure but detrimental to the Roberts’ livelihood. The ongoing construction directly in front of their store led to a significant decrease in business.

Downsizing and Financial Hardships

The construction-induced slowdown in business forced the Roberts to reduce their workforce from five employees to a solitary part-timer. “We cannot financially recover from this,” Bill Roberts lamented, emphasizing the dire economic impact the project had on their pawnbroking enterprise.

The Ripple Effect on Nearby Businesses

The devastating effects of the roadwork weren’t isolated to Galaxy Pawn. Local business owners, like Than Rittiluechai of Choo Chai restaurant, just a few blocks away, also experienced similar downturns. “This might just push me into early retirement,” Rittiluechai shared, having faced the worst business decline in his 42 years of operation.

An Unnavigable Obstacle for Customers

With 19th Street construction making Rittiluechai’s restaurant inaccessible from the main road, potential patrons were deterred by the complicated detour through an alley, resulting in the loss of approximately half of his business. Similarly, Bill Hanselman, president of The Computer Guy, located further east, reported customers struggled to reach his store. Accessibility issues amplified personal challenges for Hanselman, who had lost a leg just before the project began.

Calls for Communication and Support

As financial reserves dwindled, business owners called for improved communication and support. While State Senator Charles Perry acknowledged the complicated nature of the project—integrating sewer, water, and infrastructure enhancements—he also hinted at potential state intervention if completion delayed beyond January 1, 2025.

Hope for Assistance

Gail Roberts expressed a glimmer of hope for the community, despite the imminent closure of Galaxy Pawn on December 31, 2024. “It’s too late for us, but perhaps there can be financial assistance to prevent our neighbors from enduring the same fate,” she said.

Conclusion

As Lubbock’s businesses grapple with the unforeseen consequences of essential infrastructure improvements, the poignant story of Gail and Bill Roberts’ Galaxy Pawn serves as a somber reminder of the delicate balance between progress and preservation. The Roberts’ journey underscores the resilience of small business owners and highlights the critical need for effective communication and support amid large-scale urban projects.

Key Takeaways

• Impact of Infrastructure Projects: Large construction projects can inadvertently harm small businesses, leading to potential closures and economic hardships.
• Community Relationships: Businesses like Galaxy Pawn showcase the powerful bonds built within communities over decades and the importance of local enterprises.
• Necessity for Support: During major projects, there should be mechanisms in place to assist affected businesses, ensuring they can thrive alongside development.

Source: https://www.wsaz.com/2024/11/14/this-is-worst-family-owned-business-close-after-30-years-due-road-construction/