Time has not healed all wounds. Within weeks of the five-year anniversary of a flood that ruined dozens of businesses in Shockoe Bottom, several businesses filed a lawsuit against the City of Richmond.
Havana 59
Shockoe Bottom-ing out?
In 2004 Richmond’s historic Shockoe Bottom was devastated by Hurricane Gaston. Drainage systems malfunctioned and overflowed, and floodwater ran freely through the streets causing extensive damage to businesses. Four years later, the area is showing a few signs of recovery, but the vacancy rate hovers above 20%. Turnover in restaurants and bars is high.