Small businesses reopening in downtown Athens; some still recovering

ATHENS — After a tornado hit downtown Athens this week, several businesses were damaged and temporarily closed for repairs.

Despite the adversity, the business community and the city as a whole have shown remarkable resilience in years past when faced with similar challenges brought on by tornadoes.

“As for our downtown family of businesses, downtown Athens has always been more than just buildings; it’s a symbol of who we are,” Tere Richardson, Executive Director of Athens Main Street. “It’s where we celebrate milestones, create memories, and share our lives.  We are small-town America with our Christmas parade, festivals, pep rallies, quaint shops, independent restaurants, and ‘shop local, eat local’ mentality. 

“This brought us through the adversity we faced during the COVID years, and we came out stronger on the other side.”

Richardson said many businesses have once again opened their doors while some will require further repairs before beginning operations again.

“Downtown Athens is open for business,” she said. “Most of our local shops, restaurants, and services are open and ready to welcome customers. However, some businesses are still recovering from storm-related disruptions, and they will need our support in the coming days and weeks.

“CEI Bookstore has suffered devastating damage to both their building and inventory, while Bennett’s Clothing sustained significant roof and HVAC damage. Both businesses will need time to repair and restore their operations. Other retail shops are making repairs but are able to open to the public, while some professional service businesses, which also suffered major damage, are resuming operations at temporary locations.”

 She also noted the city’s history of facing challenges brought on by severe weather.

 “The Athens-Limestone community has faced the devastation of tornadoes time and again— from 1974, 2011, 2012, 2014, May 2024, and now December 2024,” Richardson said. “These events brought significant property damage, injuries, and, heartbreakingly, loss of life. Yet, rather than desensitize us, these experiences have deepened our compassion.”