New Life For Some Flood-Ravaged Businesses In Ellicott City
ELLICOTT CITY, Md. (WJZ)—Some businesses reopen on Wednesday in Historic Ellicott City after deadly floods ripped through their town nearly a month ago.
The images of powerful floods swallowing Ellicott City still haunt this historic town.
The destruction displaced families and forced nearly 100 businesses to close their doors.
But it's a sign of hope on Wednesday, as several bluenoses reopen along Main Street.
"Everyone has been working so hard to get us open and wanting us to open," said Dave Carney, the Wine Bar owner.
Fortunately, the Wine Bar suffered minimal damage, as well as Judge's Bench Pub and restaurants across the street.
"For us to open up in less than four weeks is a godsend," said Michael Johnson, Judge's Bench owner.
The tireless efforts demonstrating a resilient community.
"Very encouraging to see so much manpower and energy devoted to it," said Johnson.
Crews and businesses have been working around the clock to get businesses back up and running over the next several weeks they plan to replace those busted pipes and gas lines along Main Street.
"So thrilled to see my customers back I miss it, I miss the normality of my life of seeing everyone everyday," said Carney.
But the harder hit businesses may take months to get back to normal.
"I'd like the see all the businesses come back cause it's a vibrant and unique place," said Charles Moore.
As the people of Ellicott City anxiously await the return of their community Howard County Executive Allan Kittleman tells WJZ they are focusing on bringing the city back to life and in the meantime ask for everyone to remain patient.
"We'll have a better idea of how we'll make Ellicott City not only as good as it was before but even more vibrant and stronger than ever," said Kittleman.
Even though several businesses have reopened, parking is still restricted for most of this area.
So if you plan on coming down, understand there are limited spaces and you will not be able to park in the downtown area.
