Barricades for Mardi Gras parades are out along the route in Lafayette. While it’s a sight that might bring excitement to some, it’s the opposite for some businesses nearby.
Megan Arceneaux, owner of Hub City Cycles, says when the barricades go up, business goes down for her store.
“I dread Mardi Gras every year because of how it impacts my business,” Arceneaux said.
A few barricades have already been placed downtown in preparation for the parades. They won’t be moved into position until Thursday.
“Literally for two weeks, I can guarantee I’m going to lose about 25 to 30 percent of my business,” Arceneaux said.
The barricades will be moved back to the side of the road following the parade on Saturday, and moved back into position by next Thursday ahead of Mardi Gras.
Public works places 5,500 barricades along the parade route and nearby areas for both crowd control and safety reasons.
While it’s only up until Fat Tuesday, Arceneaux is hoping for a change for small businesses along the route.
“It really has killed my Mardi Gras spirit,” Arceneaux said.
For more information on barricades, click here.
