Opportunities and challenges for small businesses in new transit neighborhoods: Understanding impacts through in‐depth interviews

Abstract

Proximity to light rail stations may be an asset to small businesses if it increases foot traffic and customers, or it may present a challenge in the face of rising rents and threats of commercial gentrification. In this paper, we examine this dynamic through in-depth interviews with small business owners in proximity to new transit stations in Phoenix, Arizona; Seattle, Washington; and Charlotte, North Carolina to probe the opportunities and challenges faced within these locations. Overall, more challenges were raised including perceptions of an increased homeless population around stations, elevated rents, and increased vehicular traffic. Positive factors included increased foot traffic and proximity to customers.

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