Don't Let Construction Kill Your Foot Traffic: How Strategic Signage Keeps Customers During the Streetcar Build
By First Impression Signs and Graphics 28-01-2026 8
If you own a business near Farnam Street or anywhere along the future streetcar route, you’ve likely felt the impact. The orange cones are up, the heavy machinery is moving, and for many local shops, the "Open" sign is getting lost in a sea of dust and detour markers.
Big national chains can afford to weather a few months of reduced foot traffic. They have million-dollar marketing budgets to fall back on. But for Omaha’s small businesses, a drop in daily visits is a direct hit to the bottom line.
However, being small has one massive advantage: agility.
While the big box stores are stuck waiting for corporate approval to change a window display, you can pivot instantly. With the right Omaha sign company as your partner, you can turn a construction zone into a marketing opportunity. Here is how to use strategic signage to keep your doors swinging open, even when the road is closed.
1. The "Wayfinding" Pivot: Guide Them Through the Maze
When the sidewalks get torn up, customers get confused. If they can’t figure out how to get to your door in three seconds, they will keep walking.
This is where custom wayfinding becomes your best salesperson. Don't rely on the city’s generic "Sidewalk Closed" signs. Counter them with high-visibility, branded custom business signs that give clear, positive directions.
- A-frame signs (sandwich boards): Place these at the corner of the detour to act as a breadcrumb trail. A simple arrow with "Yes, We Are OPEN! (Entrance around back)" can save a sale.
- Fence banners: If there is temporary construction fencing blocking your view, don't let it be a barrier. Ask if you can mount a mesh banner that acts as a temporary billboard.
2. Window Graphics: Your 24/7 Billboard
With construction vehicles blocking your main signage, your windows become your most valuable real estate.
Many businesses leave their windows blank or cluttered with small flyers. Instead, use bold custom storefront signs and window graphics to scream your message to the street.
- Go big and bold: Use large-format vinyl lettering that can be read from across the street (or from the car stuck in traffic).
- The "hard hat" special: Lean into the chaos. A window decal advertising a "Construction Sale" or "Pardon Our Dust" discount turns a negative into a fun, localized promotion that big chains would never do.
3. The "Lobby" Experience: Reassuring the Customer
Once they navigate the maze and get inside, the experience needs to be seamless. The stress of the construction outside should vanish the moment they step through your door.
Refresh your lobby signs to create an immediate sense of calm and professionalism. If your exterior is messy due to road work, ensure your interior branding is pristine. A high-quality acrylic or dimensional logo behind the reception desk subconsciously tells the customer, "We are stable, professional, and here to stay."
4. Navigating the "Red Tape" of Temporary Signs
Here is the trap many business owners fall into: out of desperation, they throw up banners and yard signs everywhere, only to get slapped with a code violation.
Omaha has specific zoning rules regarding temporary signage (often limited to 30 days per quarter or specific sizes). A national online printer won’t warn you about these codes.
This is why partnering with a local sign company Omaha trusts is critical. We know exactly what is allowed in Midtown versus West Omaha. We can help you design a "temporary" signage strategy that maximizes your visibility without triggering a fine from the city.
Survival of the Most Visible
The streetcar project will eventually be a boon for business, but you need to survive the build first. Don't let the construction hide your hard work.
By being aggressive, creative, and strategic with your signage, you can outmaneuver the big brands and keep your loyal customers coming back.
