Mandatory masks and fewer stands, but also more buses will switch things up on the streets of this year's Braderie. If all goes well, merchants only need to hold on for few a months more.
The first test drives are scheduled for October, and the tram to the central station is expected to be in operation by December. Guill Kaempff, President of the the Commercial Union of Luxembourg City (UCVL), admits there have indeed been hard times for businesses due to the tram works. He does, though, see a light at the end of tunnel, and hopes for an improvement in shopkeeper's fortunes in the coming months.
Patrick Goldschmidt, councillor of mobility for Luxembourg City, looks at it from a different perspective. He outlines the silver lining that the pandemic has brought in light of the tram works.
The double hit of coronavirus and the tram works worsened business for merchants in the Gare district, but the government's financial assistance has been of great comfort. He also takes the opportunity to acknowledge and congratulate those who have been able to keep themselves above water.
But what happens when the tram finally drives to the station? Will more international businesses look into the revalued Gare district? Goldschmidt speculates, he believes that trends indicate that the current merchants would not be able to keep up with rents.
Although the situation remains uncertain Goldschmidt predicts that rents will most likely be lowered initially, though this would depend on the specific contracts and individual landlords.
Goldschmidt assured he would monitor the situation closely.
