ESCANABA, Mich. (WZMQ) – While Delta County saw some improvement in flooding conditions on Thursday, many businesses are still being impacted by high water levels.
For the last few days, the intersection of 1st Avenue North and North 30th Street has been closed to traffic. By Thursday morning, crews had taken the closure signs down, allowing traffic to flow as usual with only a small amount of water remaining on the roadway.
Just around the corner, several businesses along the highway have been closed for several days due to flooded parking lots. According to The Bar co-owner Martina Mileski, the gym shut down operations Monday afternoon.
“We were very worried that the water was going to come inside of the gym,” she said. “[Co-owner] Jeanne put on some waders, went into the gym, and was getting all of the equipment up off the floor so that it wouldn’t be ruined.”
Thankfully, Sullivan’s Health & Fitness Solutions offered to let The Bar use its facilities for classes, beginning Thursday. Mileski says the gesture demonstrates the generous and caring spirit of the community.
“We all have the same goals,” she said. “We know we want our people to remain healthy and connected and consistent. It was huge. It just shows the character of Sullivan’s and, honestly, of Escanaba. This is the kind of thing I see all over the city, so it was really neat. It was really emotional. Our members have also been amazing, messaging us saying, ‘What can we do? Can we come and help with the equipment?’ We have a pretty good community.”
The Bar plans to keep holding classes at Sullivan’s through Saturday. Mileski says staff will then reassess the situation as the water continues to drain. Clients can stay updated on the situation by following The Bar on Facebook.
