08/30/2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
DOWNTOWN GRAND RAPIDS, OHIO OPEN FOR BUSINESS
FOLLOWING TUESDAY’S WINDSTORM
CONTACT: Joseph Schroeder
Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce
(419)832-1106
[email protected]
The shoppes and eateries located in charming Downtown Grand Rapids, Ohio have reopened following the strong windstorm that damaged trees and buildings, blocked roadways, and caused widespread power outages. Roadways were cleared on Wednesday and electrical service was restored to all downtown businesses by 1:00pm on the same.
“We knew there was a possibility of a strong storm, but we certainly weren’t expecting such catastrophe. So many trees, debris, and lines down. Thankfully, the camaraderie of community in Grand Rapids is strong and the roadways were cleared to the Downtown businesses in short order," said Paula Gillespie, Vice President of the Grand Rapids Area Chamber of Commerce and owner of Grand Rapids Vintage Treasures.
“I received a call that Grand Rapids was struck hard by the storm and immediately returned to town that evening," stated Joe Schroeder, co-owner of The Shoppes at Carson Block and the Chamber’s President; “I was in awe of the many people out working to clear debris so quickly after the storm. Several residents stopped by while I was cleaning up outside of our businesses to make sure we were okay. The Grand Rapids Township Fire & Rescue Department was coordinating efforts with volunteers to secure downed lines, volunteers were clearing trees on roadways… it was an amazing display of true community; one of which we are very much appreciative," Schroeder continued.
Village Officials, First Responders from the local fire and rescue department, and community volunteers worked long into the night, even continuing through today, clearing felled trees and debris. Toledo Edison crews had electricity restored to the Downtown Business District early Wednesday afternoon, less than 18 hours after the storm severely damaged several power lines. All shoppes, galleries, and restaurants were open on Thursday and are expected to remain open without incident thru Labor Day Weekend and going forward. “Our entire Downtown is composed of independent, locally owned small business owners,” Gillespie said, “even one day closed is detrimental to these businesses- we’re thankful for the many that worked so hard to get our businesses re-opened as quickly as possible.”
The Village of Grand Rapids, Ohio is a beautifully restored charming Victorian village located on the south bank of the Maumee River, along the Historic Miami & Erie Canal in Northwestern Wood County. Grand Rapids’ uniquely located Downtown Proper boasts six different restaurants and twenty unique shoppes and boutiques. The two-block Downtown Proper offers gorgeous views of the river. Known for its annual Applebutter Fest, always the second Sunday in October, Grand Rapids, Ohio is a unique destination offering many opportunities to shop, play, dine, and stay every day of the year.
For more information about visiting Historic Downtown Grand Rapids Ohio, visit the Chamber’s website at www.visitgrandrapidsohio.com
PHOTO CREDIT: Jamison Moosman; 2024 Grand Rapids Photo Contest Finalist
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