Niagara family business forced to relocate due to Skyway twinning

The Ontario government has purchased 25 properties next to the Garden City Skyway in Niagara to make way for two new bridges.

This has led to businesses being forced to move, including one that’s been there since the late 80s.

Frank DiPalma turned his passion into a business back in 1989 when he opened The Furniture Gallery, located right next to the Garden City Skyway.

Because The Furniture Gallery can be seen from the QEW, the location was good for business for decades. Last year DiPalma was forced to sell the land to the provincial government by way of expropriation to make way for the Twinning of the Garden City Skyway construction project.

“I feel so sorry because I am so dedicated to this business,” DiPalma said.

DiPalma had dedicated employees, many have been there for over 10 years.

Now at the age of 79, DiPalma Sr. is going to retire and his son DiPalma Jr. will take over the family business. The new location will just be around the corner at their current warehouse.

“It is bittersweet, we are losing a great location, that has given us exposure over the years, so it is a little tough losing this exposure.” DiPalma Jr. said.

The Furniture Gallery will be moving at the end of September. The provincial government has expropriated 24 other properties for the project.

The Ministry of Transportation told CHCH today there is still no timeline on when construction will actually start.