Old Ellicott City, MD to Reopen after Devastating Summer Flooding

    ELLICOTT CITY, MD, November 19, 2016 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Much of the nation remembers the harrowing images splashed across front pages and national nightly news of devastating late-summer flooding that washed away much of downtown Ellicott City, MD. Now, after heroic, community-wide efforts and contributions to rebuild the city's beautiful and historic downtown, Howard County will commemorate those monumental efforts with a daylong celebration on Small Business Saturday.

"Our Small Business Saturday celebration allows us to let travelers know how much we welcome them and we need them to help us revitalize Old Ellicott City," said Howard County Tourism and Promotion Executive Director Anthony Cordo. "We invite the world to come support these resilient business owners who fought back in the face of immense challenge. It is our valued visitors who will help ensure that some of Howard County's most beloved shops, restaurants and historic sites continue to thrive, despite the devastating flooding that struck our city on July 30."

Ellicott City's Small Business Saturday events kick off at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 26 with remarks from local officials, including a special thank you to first responders and community members who worked tirelessly to keep the city safe in the hours just following the floods; and their work to rebuild the area in the aftermath. A ribbon-cutting ceremony mark the grand reopening of Ellicott City's historic Main Street. Some 40 shops and businesses along Main Street will re-open, including local favorites like Tersiguel's, a second-generation French country restaurant, Sweet Elizabeth Jane and The B&O Railroad Museum, which is the oldest surviving railroad station in America. Entertainment, activities and live performances by local bands will set a festive tone as Ellicott City once again welcomes visitors to its downtown.

On July 30, Ellicott City was dealt a devastating blow when nearly six inches of rain fell on the area in less than two hours, causing a destructive flash flood. Without warning, shop and restaurant owners, pedestrians and shoppers were forced to take immediate refuge against the rushing waters. Many buildings and shops were destroyed. Two people lost their lives in the flood, and many others were trapped inside local businesses, including two shop owners who were forced to the rooftops until they were rescued. More than half of downtown Ellicott City will reopen in November, with nearly all local businesses expected to be back in operation by the end of the year.

Located just minutes from Baltimore-Washington International Airport, Howard County, Maryland offers a one-of-a-kind blend of rural escapes, big-city dining and culture, unforgettable shopping, small-town charm and rich American history. Travelers can shop and stroll down the historic Main Street in Old Ellicott City or relax in luxury at Columbia's world-class spa, Haven on the Lake. From eclectic breweries to a re-purposed amusement park, Howard County delights and thrills visitors of all ages. Complete information on this unique destination is available at VisitHowardCounty.com or by calling (800) 288-8747 (TRIP).

# # #