LYNDONVILLE, Vt. (WCAX) – Some flooded-out businesses in Lyndonville are starting to get back on their feet nearly two weeks after devastating flooding. But for some, the road to recovery could be a long one.
Mountain View Auto has been fixing and selling cars in Lyndonville for the past 40 years. But on Tuesday, it was day two of being back open after the flood.
A gutted truck interior was among the vehicles getting a deep clean. The office — from the floor up — is also in need of repairs. “The fire chief in town here said it come up six feet in 20 minutes,” said the shop’s Dave Ainsworth.
More than 40 cars were swamped in the parking lot and needed to be scrapped. Diane Ainsworth was trapped in the rising water and rescued by first responders. “One day at a time, just hanging in there. It’s a big loss,” Diane said
A water line on a wrecker shows the height of the deluge. Thankfully, not all the equipment inside was lost, but they are still looking at a hefty price tag. “With cars and the building and equipment and everything, I think we are probably looking at over a half a million dollars,” Ainsworth said.
Lyndonville Redemption next door is looking at even more costly repairs after owner Shane Switser says they lost everything. “I kayaked in the building that day to try to assess the damage. Complete disaster,” he said
Switser’s other business, The Pizza Man, was also flooded but has been able to partially reopen. He is eagerly waiting for a federal disaster declaration. “There are certain things that fall into place if they declare this area a disaster zone that we are being told about but we don’t have access to yet,” Switser said
The Walgreens on Broad Street remains closed along with at least two other restaurants.
“It’s pretty devastating. This is a big impact to this small community,” said Ray Hauver, a local business owner on Broad Street.
Back at Mountain View, Diane Ainsworth says relocating the business could be in the cards. “We don’t know what to expect next time. I’m sure we don’t want to do this again,” she said.
Many business owners we spoke to say they are grateful they have their health and community that supported them through a difficult time.