People who live and work near the Turcot Interchange are dismayed at the ongoing work.

They say their quality of life has diminished, especially in the past year, and feel that no one with authority is listening to their complaints.

Frank Berdah said his family's upholstery business was thriving until one year ago, when Transport Quebec put up a large wooden wall as a sound barrier.

"We're tight, it's like we have a collar here, said Berdah.

His business on St. Jacques St., just west of the bridge that was closed several years ago and is being demolished next month, has suffered because of the construction.

"There's no parking," said Berdah.

That's a bit of an understatement, since the street in front of Berdah's business is blocked by a wall that reaches to the edge of the sidewalk.

"We've been having a lot of of difficulty for clients to come, for decorators, for deliveries," said Berdah.

Everything coming in and out of his establishment has to be carried from at least a block away, and has to be able to fit between the wooden wall and the buildings.

Those who live in the area, like Melissa Cromwell say it's been a nightmare all around.

"Anytime they dig up anything , we get a sewer smell. And the sewer smell just comes in," she said.

Cromwell said Transport Quebec has provided some help.

"When it's summer it's hot, you can't leave windows open because of the dust and sound. They have given us air conditioners and paid part of the Hydro [bill]," said Cromwell.

But other residents say that is not enough.

Jill Prescesky said she feels as if she is under siege.

"In a billion dollar project with all the money being spent, you can't tell me there's not enough money to mitigate this unlivable situation."

She said that in meeting after meeting for the past few years, officials nod knowingly, but offer no concrete help.

"How can we improve their situation, let's think about it," mocked Prescesky. "It's been a year. That wall is still here. The people are still unhappy. There's been zip. Zero."

A spokesperson for Cote des Neiges-Notre Dame de Grace said the borough has done all it could to address residents' concerns as best as it can.

Construction on the Turcot is expected to last another two to three years.