Some businesses open, others remain closed after Florence

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) —  As things slowly start getting back to normal for many across the Cape Fear, some businesses are beginning to reopen, while others remain closed.

The Wilmington Best Buy suffered roof damage during Hurricane Florence, which led to extensive water damage inside the store.

The company has no timeline regarding when the Wilmington store will reopen, but employees have the option to help with cleanup efforts or work in the Jacksonville store for the time being.

O2 Fitness on Independence Blvd. reopened with normal hours Tuesday, though they still have no hot water.

Many businesses downtown have reopened, but aren’t seeing much foot traffic.

“A lot of people downtown are open, they’re ready for people to come down here. Some people are staying away because they’re worried that we’re closed or that there’s damage, but everyone downtown is working together to have stuff open, so just come and shop and enjoy it,” said embroiderer Lauren Bodenhamer.

Bodenhamer says using Etsy for online sales is helping them.

She says they are excited for river fest to bring a boost back to downtown.