The collapse of two buildings in downtown Pine Bluff is causing more hardships for at least one merchant, who is now planning to move his store.
Mid South Music owner Robert English said he was already facing challenges before the neighboring VFW and Band Museum buildings collapsed in the 400 block of Main Street on Saturday, Feb. 21. The city has since closed Main Street between Fifth and Fourth avenues, preventing people from reaching his store unless they are willing to walk past barricades.
“I have fewer customers because of the blockades. I am looking to move. Most buildings are old, and it will not be long before the Hotel Pines collapses,” English said, referring to the former hotel, which is also in the 400 block, across the street.
English said he does not see much hope for keeping Mid South Music store in its current location when customers cannot reach his door without crossing over barricades. He is moving his merchandise, but he needs to find a new place at the right price and location.
“It is hard to maintain a great attitude,” English said. “I am fortunate to have instruments to repair. My business is also declining because of the economy, the Internet and band directors sending people elsewhere.”
Independent reporting for Pine Bluff & Jefferson County since 1879.
Surveying his surroundings, English said he asked Mayor Debe Hollingsworth if the street department can remove the barricades at Main Street and Fourth Avenue, hoping it will help more customers reach his door.
Pine Bluff Street Department Director Rick Rhoden said he would speak with English about his request. Rhoden said he may be able to allow motorists to drive to Mid South Music, but he would need to put up a sign reading “no through traffic” to make sure people turn around.
English said he has patched his roof but it needs a major overhaul. He estimated that his building needed $100,000 to fix his roof, but he cannot afford such an expense.
“My business does not do well enough to justify spending $100,000 to repair this building,” English said. “I did not realize how bad my roof was until recently.”
As far as where he wants to go, English said he may or may not stay in Pine Bluff.
“I do not have a preconceived notion as to where I would move,” he said.