Swansea business still open despite street construction

SWANSEA, Mass. (WLNE) — Almost a year since construction began on Route 6 in Swansea, a small business has been feeling the effects.

Tape and orange barrels have lined the parking lot of the Pink Bag, but the owners want the public to know they’re still open.

Manager Stephanie Houeiss said the new location near Gardners Neck Road opened in 2024, but business was slowed by the construction that started in November.

“Of course it’s been tough on us, because it looks like we’re closed,” Houeiss said. “There’s construction being done, so people are more focused on getting by the construction than looking at the business.”

The town said the work will improve drainage and widen the road.

Liz Roias is a friend of the store and said, even though the sight of the road work may be daunting, there’s nothing to be afraid of.

“I just go slow while I’m pulling up here, and just make my own little entrance if I need to,” Roias said. “It’s just knowing that they are open because it is such a luxury consignment shop.”

Houiess said the business was not pointing fingers, they just hoped to get the word out.

“We just want people to know we are still open, there are entrances to get in,” she said.