FORT MYERS
While some businesses have made progress, the damage from Hurricane Ian has been severe, and there are bars, restaurants and shops in downtown Fort Myers that are still unable to open their doors. However, some of them will soon reopen and are ready to return to normal life.
Megan Fitzmaurice, assistant general manager of City Tavern, has been waiting for customers to return since September 28.
“There was four feet of water in the building,” Fitzmaurice said. “Every piece of equipment was completely destroyed.”
What Ian couldn’t spoil was her determination to reopen the town center where she works. She is very willing to bring people back through the doors of the town tavern.
“Oh my God, we miss it,” Fitzmaurice said. “We’re hoping, we’re looking at the end of January, but we’re hoping to open sooner.”
While some popular downtown spots are open or preparing to reopen, a recent local downtown favorite has had to close.
Marika Weiss and her husband own Peter’s Ice Cream and Coffee Shop, but someone new recently bought 1625 Hendry St., the building the shop moved into 18 months ago.
“Unfortunately, the owner of the building has other plans,” Weiss said. “It’s very sad. But we’re looking forward to it — we’re doing it like the Americans do it.”
Looking ahead means staying in business and serving customers, just in a different location.
“I’m doing everything I can to make sure we can find a location downtown to keep our customers,” Weiss said.
WINK News also reached out to the owner of Twisted Vine, which was closed after the storm, but we have not heard back. However, there is a permit for plasterboard on the front door of the enterprise.
