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Bridge closure affecting local businesses

PITTSBURGH — A bridge closure is causing some businesses to take a hit on the North Side, including a longtime staple.

Gus Kalaris says profits are down about 50 percent so far this season at “Gus and Yiayia’s.” The ice ball and popcorn cart has been in operation since the 1930s, when it was launched by his father.

Kalaris, 86, attributes the decline to the West Ohio Street Bridge closure, although he said the weather hasn’t helped either.

The bridge was shut down in January due to “deteriorating” conditions and “continued violation of the three-ton weight restriction,” according to city officials. It remains open for pedestrians and bicyclists.

The bridge is expected to be closed for another year and a half before a new bridge is built.

Loyal customers of Kalaris’ business have taken to social media to encourage people to continue visiting Gus and Yiayia’s.

“It's humbling because we've been here all these years and people come. They’re in their third and fourth generation. Now this traffic pattern here, it really hurt us,” Kalaris said.

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