In order to remove debris left from the fire-damaged buildings that formerly housed businesses Zorba’s, Mia Za’s Cafe and Pitaya, Champaign construction company, Petry-Kuhne, closed off the eastbound lane of Green Street between Sixth and Wright Street and the adjacent sidewalk on Tuesday.

As all surrounding businesses remained open, the area’s closure created heavy traffic.

Bob Powell, manager for the construction workers, said that this was the third time they removed restaurant equipment, while checking to see if any of it can be salvaged.

He added that Tuesday would be the last day for the construction workers to remove equipment.

The entire second floor of the building will be demolished completely on Tuesday.

“It’s pretty nasty up there, but it’s not structurally safe for my workers to go in there because the roof has nearly collapsed,” Powell said. “It’s been a heck of a job.”

The work spurred vehicle traffic on Green Street.

Though neighboring businesses, such as Casablanca and Sushi Rock, did not suffer any serious property damage from the fire, they still felt its effects.

Both restaurants had to close for a week, and Sang Kim, Sushi Rock owner, said his business was being hindered Tuesday because of the construction.

“Because they’ve blocked off the road and sidewalk, we had a really slow lunch today — much worse than any other day,” Kim said.

Despite obstacles, students have expressed a desire for the prompt rebuilding of the area.

“I’d rather it get fixed because it’s just really sad looking,” said Sarah Olles, freshman in LAS.

Fire investigators have concluded that the cause of the fire is unknown, but not suspicious.