Rodrigues “Rod” Smith witnessed a heartbreaking decline in his business along Main Street in Frisco, primarily due to ongoing construction projects such as a new parking garage, 4th Street Plaza, and the overall renovation of Main Street itself.

“To be brutally honest, I understood that I wouldn’t be able to survive these changes, primarily because my shop wasn’t generating enough income,” Smith lamented, poignantly laying bare his struggles.

Barber’s Financial Burden

The 49-year-old barber and business owner, who has operated from a location in the 6900 block of Main Street for the past six years, faced immense challenges. The burdens of covering rent, paying his employees, and supporting his sons, amidst a dwindling customer base, became overwhelming.

“It’s been terrible, man. I’ve even lost 30 pounds due to the stress,” he revealed. “I’ve been forced to wear two faces; the exterior shows strength, but internally I’m fighting a battle of my own,” Smith expressed with raw honesty. “You might think I’m doing well; however, I have too much pride to admit just how hard this has been.”

Smith, alongside other small business owners on Main Street, raised concerns with the city regarding how the construction was negatively affecting their businesses. While Frisco offered some assistance, Smith stated that the solutions provided were not sufficient for his barber shop’s needs. Ultimately, he made the difficult decision to leave his longstanding location after six years.

In search of stability, he resorted to cutting hair from his garage until he secured a new space in Little Elm. ” Given my knowledge of myself, I’m keenly aware that my days might be numbered in this new space. I need to return to what I know best,” he said, reflecting on his situation with a sense of urgency. Smith believes that his establishment, Brooklyn’s Cuts and Designs, has become another casualty of the construction frenzy.

City’s Defense of Economic Support Strategies

“Any time there’s a renovation project, particularly one close to local businesses—like on Main Street—it’s quite challenging to complete the project without creating some disruptive impact,” shared Ben Brezina, an Assistant City Manager in Frisco. He acknowledged the complexities involved and noted that the natural business cycle often leads to establishments coming and going.

While he couldn’t confirm whether the construction work was directly responsible for Smith’s loss, he pointed to Dad Jokes Cheesyburger as an example of a new business thriving in the area. Meanwhile, he emphasized the city’s investment efforts that extend far beyond the reported $80 million allocated to the construction project, aiming to bolster local businesses.

“Since July, we’ve invested over $1.4 million to assist businesses in the Rail District,” Brezina highlighted, illustrating their commitment to the local economy. He noted that the city had produced around 12,000 gift cards, distributing about 8,000 to residents living within a mile of the Rail District—a program costing Frisco $177,000.

Moreover, he reported that they had sold over $600,000 in digital gift cards, which he anticipated would provide much-needed cash flow to businesses during the holiday season.

“We also implemented an advertising allowance grant of $3,000,” he explained. Brezina detailed a significant $1.5 million facade improvement program introduced, which he believed more establishments would be able to utilize as the renovation progresses.

Furthermore, he emphasized that the Economic Development Corporation (EDC) invested a substantial amount—around $250,000—on advertising campaigns to promote the Frisco Rail District across the Metroplex.

However, Smith noted that none of the funding initiatives benefited him. As a barber, gift cards were not practical currency for his business model, and despite applying for a grant, he was turned away. “The council has been clear that direct economic grants are not an option for businesses in this area, which is why we’ve sought alternative creative solutions like gift cards and advertising programs,” Brezina clarified.

Looking ahead, Brezina mentioned that the Main Street renovation is expected to be completed by January 2026. The planting of street trees and the installation of streetlights are already in progress. He reported that brick paving is nearly finished, and driveways have been completed. Both the parking garage and the 4th Street Plaza are set for a May completion, with a grand opening celebration planned for the summer.

However, this celebration will unfold without the presence of Smith’s barbershop, as a sign for a new pizza restaurant now hangs where his business once thrived. Currently, Smith is subleasing a new location where he feels customers can more easily access him without facing issues like flat tires. Yet, he remains unsettled and is still contemplating his next move, deeply affected by the circumstances that led him to this point.

“I feel a way about all of this, man, as I drive past establishments I’ve supported, putting people in positions to succeed and facilitating opportunities for those who needed assistance,” he reflected, a hint of sadness evident in his voice.

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