Flooding Victims Given 5-Days To Access Homes, Businesses
ELLICOTT CITY, Md. (WJZ) -- It's been nearly three weeks since the deadly flooding in Ellicott City. Historic Main Street could soon reopen to the public, but there is still plenty of work to be done.
September 16 is the date many have circled on their calendars, WJZ's George Solis reports.
"I saw the extent of the damage and I saw people scrambling for their lives," said Paula Dwyer.
Emerging out of the deadly rising waters in Ellicott City are stories of heroism and heartbreak.
"It went all the way up to the ceiling. It's a complete loss," said David Dempster.
Nearly three weeks later, Howard County officials offered WJZ a glimpse at the future of Main Street.
Property owner Paula Dwyer is floored by the progress.
"I was impressed with what I saw today. We got power back on the building, and that was huge," said Dwyer.
For the next five days, home and business owners will be given the longest period of access since the storm hit.
During the five-day window, cars and trucks will be allowed through Main Street. It is the first time larger cars, like pickups and box trucks, will be allowed access through the area.
Business owner Cris Werneck is making use of the time.
"There's a lot of equipment now, whereas before they were avoiding the equipment to get the people down. It's still a hub of activity. There's enough work there for a long time," said Werneck.
Both the state and federal government are offering small business loans to help cover the costs, and some permit fees are being waived to help business owners, as well as good old fashioned donations.
"The outpouring of love for Ellicott City has been phenomenal," said Terry Chaconas, Ellicott City Partnership.
All the while, emergency management officials are keeping a close eye on the skies.
"Yes, we're monitoring the weather 24/7 with our partners at the National Weather Service," said Thomas McNeal, Howard County Office of Emergency Management.
After the five-day window, Main Street will be closed off for the next three weeks.