'Getting pretty scary': Construction project threatens iconic Milwaukee restaurant Speed Queen BBQ

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- A hometown restaurant on the city's near north side, Speed Queen BBQ, says a city construction project is threatening their bottom line.

The project, taking place throughout pockets of west Walnut Street, has been going on for serval months -- causing a once popular restaurant to rethink their business model.

The $8.1 million reconstruction being done was activated as a traffic calming measure, but for one area restaurant they say this construction is putting them in a financial deficit -- one they've never seen before.

"To see your family business, your heritage threatened is always a serious thing," said Giovonni Gillespie, owner of Speed Queen BBQ.

Gillespie said he's used to seeing long lines during the lunchtime rush, but since March, all he sees is a sea of orange cones.

"That's a lot of money to lose," said Gillespie.

Speed Queen BBQ has been an iconic restaurant in Milwaukee for more than six decades, and in Gillespie's life well before he was out the womb.

"They'll tell me about times they remember her being pregnant with me, or just seeing me and my sister and brothers stretched behind the counter with my mom," said Gillespie.

The restaurant surviving a global pandemic, civil unrest, and countless other historical events, only now to be at risk of shutting their doors, because of construction.

"If [construction] continues like this, it's getting pretty scary," said Gillespie.

The owner went on to say the construction taking place on West Walnut Street from North 20th Street to North 12th Street has stunted his business.

Gillespie continued and said, there's been a lack of communication between surrounding businesses and the city.

A spokesperson with The Department of Public Works (DPW), sent CBS 58 News this statement:

"DPW appreciates that construction work impacts local businesses, which is why we put an extra effort into communicating about construction plans early and often. we also post details about each project on our website and encourage businesses and residents to contact us with questions or concerns."

Despite the response, Gillespie is praying this construction won't be the end of the family business.

"I love our community and I love to be here, and I could have moved a long time ago, but I like being where I am, and I love being where we are," said Gillespie.

For more information on the Walnut construction project, CLICK HERE.