Small businesses along the Kingsbridge commercial corridor are finding new ways to attract customers as ongoing roadwork and construction continue to impact foot traffic.
The Bailey Avenue Merchants Alliance, known as BAMBA, was formed in 2021 by local business owners to support merchants along Bailey Avenue, Broadway and West 238th Street. The alliance's mission is to help small businesses grow while encouraging residents to shop locally.
The group also played a key role in bringing merchants together after a devastating fire on Bailey Avenue forced several businesses to rebuild.
"Support our small local businesses because each of these businesses is someone's dream," said Laura Levine-Pinedo of the Kingsbridge-Riverdale-Van Cortlandt Development Corporation.
Among the businesses benefiting from the alliance is Nice Guys Car Wash, which has served the neighborhood for 16 years.
"We are all struggling. We all need to try and get by," owner James Abbate said.
As construction continues along the corridor, Abbate said the business has introduced monthly exterior wash memberships, allowing customers to wash their vehicles daily for one monthly price.
Just down the block, Home BX is also using creative ways to draw in customers.
"We have music on the weekends, piano on Wednesday, and happy hour every day," said manager Norman Martinez.
Business owners say community support remains essential as construction continues. They hope initiatives like a "Shop Local" mural along the corridor will encourage residents to support neighborhood businesses, with every purchase helping local shops remain open and continue serving the community.
© 2026 N12N, LLC
