Erin's Own Irish Imports a victim of poor economy and Westfield reconstruction

Bridge and road reconstruction projects are scheduled for completion later this year.

The Republican | Don TreegerErin's Own Irish Imports in Westfield will close in May.

WESTFIELD – Erin’s Own Irish Imports, a cornerstone at the intersection of Franklin and Elm streets for nearly 30 years, has fallen victim to a poor economy and continued downtown road reconstruction.

“We tried to stick it out, but find that we just cannot,” Mary M. Noone, a business partner, said. The specialty store will close in May.

“It was a difficult decision but the right decision,” said Noone, pointing to declining sales and a third year of traffic disruption in the downtown.

Sales last year were down 52 percent, Noone said.

“Last year was our worst and this year we face additional reconstruction such as sidewalks,” she said.

“We just can’t go another six months,” said Noone.

The closing will add to vacant storefronts along Elm Street, but city and business leaders say they are confident efforts toward continued downtown redevelopment will succeed.

“It is unfortunate that this store is closing,” said Jeffrey R. Daley, the city’s advancement officer.

“That has been a mainstay in the downtown. It was kind of special. Construction is on-going and will come to an end later this year. We encourage both businesses and residents to stick it out,” Daley said.

“I am so sad. I love that store,” was the reaction from Lisa G. McMahon, director of Westfield Business Improvement District.

But, she said she understands the decision that was made.

“We had hoped that this store could weather the storm. It is a long-time tenant at that spot,” said Mayor Daniel M. Knapik.

The mayor said city officials will work to fill the void.

Noone said November 2012 would have marked the store’s 30th anniversary.

“This is a difficult time for specialty shops,” the owner said.

Bridge and road construction has caused traffic problems in the downtown for the past three years. But, projects involving the $47 million Great River Bridge and $14 million Elm, Broad and Main streets reconstruction are scheduled for completion by fall.