Hurricane Helene’s Long Shadow: Asheville’s Struggle and Hope
Asheville, N.C., known for its vibrant hospitality sector, is still grappling with the aftereffects of Hurricane Helene a year after the storm caused widespread devastation. The economic repercussions are significant, and local businesses are banking on the return of tourists to revive their fortunes.
Brandon Davis’ Dream Turned Nightmare
Brandon Davis, alongside his husband Davie, launched their dream bar, Day Trip, in September last year. Nestled by the French Broad River, this 70s-themed haven was abruptly devastated by Hurricane Helene’s floodwaters just a month after opening. “Everything was covered in sewage from the ceiling to the floor,” Davis lamented. Their curated collection of vintage decor was ruined, leaving them with a heart-wrenching cleanup.
Community-Wide Impact
The hurricane’s impact extended beyond riverbanks, damaging the city’s water main and cutting off power, internet, and cell service. Landslides further destroyed infrastructure, leaving residents like Davis worried about essentials. “Our immediate concern wasn’t the bar. Our immediate concern was, we don’t have food or internet or power,” he explained.
Economic Toll and Recovery Efforts
Businesses in western North Carolina reported an average loss of $322,000 due to Helene. As the crucial fall tourist season approaches, the region’s economy remains below pre-storm levels. Davis considers himself fortunate, having raised $200,000 through a fundraising campaign, allowing him to reopen Day Trip at a safer location.
Tourism’s Critical Role
Despite the new beginnings, economic uncertainties loom for Davis and others. The demand for vacation rentals in Asheville has seen a 20% decline. “Each month is terrifying when it comes time to pay our rent and our utilities,” Davis shared. Similarly, Kala Brooks, manager of Top of the Monk, faces staffing challenges, having reduced her team significantly after the brewery beneath them was forced to close.
Navigating the Future
Asheville’s hospitality workers, like Jay Slusher of Golden Hour, have faced tough decisions. Slusher contemplated leaving town after Helene but realized his passion for hospitality kept him anchored. “I really have come to terms that I love hospitality,” he reflected. Brooks, too, channels her concerns into creativity, crafting new seasonal cocktails and embracing this period as one of “rebirth and change.”
This article was originally written by www.npr.org
