Chapel Hill businesses and residents impacted by Tropical Storm Chantal are facing significant challenges as they navigate the complex process of securing funding and rebuilding. Many are still determining their ability to remain operational following the storm’s concentrated damage.
Beth Ellis, owner of Clean Juice, described the devastating scene as floodwaters rose three to four feet within her establishment. The aftermath has involved extensive cleanup, temporary support for employees, and the daunting task of assessing insurance coverage.
“We’re not sure exactly how we’re going to be able to rebuild, our part at this point,” Ellis stated, highlighting the financial strain. while her landlord will address the central wall, the lapse in her flood insurance means she is responsible for all other damages.
Ellis expressed concern about incurring additional debt, particularly wiht two children in collage and another nearing higher education. “We don’t need to bring on more debt if we possibly can, so we’re going to see what we can do here,” she said.
The localized nature of Chantal’s damage in Chapel hill, unlike the widespread impact of Hurricane Helene in western North Carolina, presents a unique frustration for those directly affected. Joel Harper of the Small Business Technology Development Center noted the disparity: “When you lose an interstate or a water sewer system that affects tens of thousands of people who may not have gotten any other damage, et cetera, et cetera, et cetera, Chantal, if one got affected by Chantal it’s just as devastating for them. But obviously it wasn’t as pervasive or widespread in our communities.”
The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is providing low-interest loans to assist both businesses and individuals, including homeowners and renters, affected by the storm.
Janell Dixon from the SBA explained the loan program’s flexibility: “Maybe somebody wants to leave the area that’s in the flood zone. maybe they wont to build their home and repurposed for like a flood zone area. Like if they have a lower driveway, some people will come in and build in on that and make sure that they have the proper flooding zone.”
A resource center has been established at the Drakeford Library in Carrboro, with plans for an additional location in Durham to support those affected by Tropical Storm Chantal.
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