Have you heard? A McDonald's is set to replace the Flowers Bar and to displace Cedar's of Lebanon. Lengthy renovations will likely include tearing up the sidewalks to improve the plumbing and electricity in the building, a project value of $500,000. We oppose the takeover of giant corporations on the Ave. Do you? 

Students living, working, commuting, shopping and learning in the University District will be impacted by this takeover. Not only will the construction cause more disruptions (similar to the disruption where a Raising Canes is being built), but they will also suffer from increased congestion. A McDonald's without a drive thru on a street that is Bus Only will increase the amount of food delivery drivers in the area. This creates more traffic, more stalling in the middle of the street, and less parking available. 

You can expect other small businesses on the Ave to suffer more than they already are. The cheap options available from them will instead be replaced by McDonald's value meal burgers and fries (and you can expect those to be sold at a higher price due to its location). Dick's Wallingford will likely take a hit from its customers living on the west side of campus. 

Corporations do not tend to do well on the Ave, evidenced by the departure of Target, CVS, a Starbucks, and a McDonald's in 1994 (which closed after only six years). These companies push out local small businesses, sign a long contract then pull out, leaving the storefront vacant for years. Your favorite hole in the wall might be next. 

By opposing this change, you can make your voice heard. We can make it clear that the community that builds the University District thrives. We can keep the U District Unique.

Attend the U District Community Council Meeting at Bulldog News on March 12th @7pm.