Prompt and United Response to Fire on West Franklin Street
Prompt and United Response to Fire on West Franklin Street
A group of business and community leaders, including Chapel Hill Downtown Partnership, the Town of Chapel Hill, and The Chamber for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro continues to discuss how to best support businesses in the 400 block of West Franklin Street that were impacted by a fire that occurred on Saturday, July 22.
The group expresses their gratitude and appreciation to the many first responders and neighboring agencies who responded to this call, including Chapel Hill and Carrboro Fire Departments. The group commends their timely and effective response. Their dedication and bravery prevented any public injuries and put out the fire. The three Chapel Hill firefighters who suffered minor injuries are doing well.
As the business support efforts move forward, the priority remains supporting the affected businesses and their employees. The following establishments have sustained damage due to the fire, smoke, or water: Mediterranean Deli, Bakery, and Catering; db sutton & company; Moshi Moshi Means Hello; Simply Audrey; and Tropical Smoothie Cafe.
The electricity has been restored for most adjacent buildings, but some rooftops sustained minor smoke damage. There is also a possibility of water damage.
The Town of Chapel Hill is working closely with affected business owners to make sure they have the support they need throughout the re-opening process. Building inspectors are expediting the process, while maintaining safety as a top priority.
In response to the fire's impact on Mediterranean Deli, Bakery, and Catering specifically, a GoFundMe campaign has been established. The primary objective of this fund is to provide financial support to the employees, ensuring they receive the necessary assistance during this challenging time.
We recognize the significance of these establishments as pillars of our community, and our collective support will be essential in helping them recover and rebuild. We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding as this group assesses the needs of the affected businesses.
The Chapel Hill Fire Department continues to investigate the cause of the fire. As more updates become available, we will keep the community informed. Together we can demonstrate the resilience and spirit that defines Chapel Hill.
About The Chamber: The Chamber is a membership organization that serves and advances the business interests of the Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro, including the Towns of Chapel Hill and Carrboro as well as southern Orange, northern Chatham, and southwest Durham counties. The Chamber's network includes over 600-member enterprises that employ more than 95,000 workers throughout the region. Together with its network, The Chamber is committed to building a sustainable community where business thrives.
Contact: Aury St. Germain, Director, Communications and Business Development, The Chamber For a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro, astgermain@carolinachamber.org, 828-674-8982 (direct)