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Wappingers Falls Business District Starts To Rebound After Damaging Fire

WAPPINGERS FALLS, N.Y. -- The 2600 block of East Main Street in Wappingers Falls is slowly coming back to life following a devasting fire last Saturday that damaged several businesses and apartments.

The fire led to the hours-long closure of East Main Street (Route 9D) in Wappingers Falls.

The fire led to the hours-long closure of East Main Street (Route 9D) in Wappingers Falls.

Photo Credit: Hughsonville Fire Department
An aerial view of the blaze on East Main Street in Wappingers Falls.

An aerial view of the blaze on East Main Street in Wappingers Falls.

Photo Credit: Hughsonville Fire Department
The building where the blaze broke out on the 2600 block of East Main Street in Wappingers Falls.

The building where the blaze broke out on the 2600 block of East Main Street in Wappingers Falls.

Photo Credit: Google Maps street view

On Wednesday, two businesses, a barber shop and the Blackboard Cafe, had their power, water and gas turned back on so they can reopen, said Bryan Murphy, Wappingers Falls fire inspector, and code enforcement officer.

In addition, four apartments at 2649 Main St., can be re-occupied, he added.

"This is great news a good first step," Murphy said. 

The businesses that remain closed include the Stone Bridge Antique Shop, Rice & Beans Deli, a doctor's office, a sneaker store and L&J  Gift Store, he added.

At least seven apartments are also still closed to residents.

A spot of good news includes that any business damaged that wants to move to an open building within the village can do so with only a fire inspection at this time, Murphy said.

"They don't have to appear before the planning board at this time," he said. "L&J has found a building and are moving their merchandise into it today."

Murphy also encouraged residents to come to the area and visit the businesses on the other side of the street that are still open.

He wasn't sure when the investigation into the cause of the fire will be complete but expects it soon. He also said that engineers have reviewed the damaged buildings and come up with a plan as to what will have to come down and what will be able to stay. The plan has not been released as yet.

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