March 27, 2020 / Modified mar 27, 2020 6:07 p.m.

Fourth Avenue businesses feeling pinch of coronavirus-related closures

A discussion with North Fourth Avenue Merchants Association's Fred Ronstadt.

Uncertainty over COVID-19’s impact on the local economy extends to the North Fourth Avenue Merchants Association. Fred Ronstadt is a former Tucson city councilman who currently oversees the association, which advocates for businesses in the historic district. Ronstadt told Lorraine Rivera many of its small businesses already had thin profit margins before they closed or restricted hours in response to the pandemic. He discussed the difficult reality they face.

Restrictions meant to prevent gatherings have hit restaurants, bars, gyms and entertainment venues especially hard. Just before the city of Tucson announced mandatory closures, Arizona 360 heard from business owners about some of their concerns.


Arizona 360
Arizona 360 airs Fridays at 8:30 p.m. on PBS 6 and Saturdays at 8 p.m. on PBS 6 PLUS. See more from Arizona 360.
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