March 2017/April 2017
After historic flood waters ravaged Ellicott City’s historic downtown Main Street on the evening of July 30, 2016 causing more than $20 million in damage and the loss of two lives, officials hosted a re-opening ceremony shortly after Thanksgiving. The ribbon cutting, with Senator Ben Cardin and Congressman Elijah Cummings, celebrated the more than 50 offices, restaurants and shops that re-opened in the months after the tragedy.
While seeing hundreds of people at the event ready to shop was heartening, the work continues. In December, Howard County Executive Allan H. Kittleman hosted a meeting to discuss rebuilding strategies. A City of Frederick representative spoke about the Carroll Creek project in that downtown area, which helps to control flooding while spurring economic development with shops and offices nearby. The promenade and fountains were built following a devastating flood in Frederick’s historic downtown area in 1976.
Heritage Toyota Catonsville, a division of Heritage Automotive, has joined with the Ellicott City Partnership to establish On The Road, a $50,000 fund to assist those whose vehicles were destroyed by the flood. Those who rent or own property downtown or are a business owner or employee and lost a car can apply for funds at heritageautogrant.com.
Fundraising efforts are also ongoing. To make a financial donation, go to the Ellicott City Partnership website at ecpartnership.org.
