Downtown Durham, Inc. Creates Resource Page for Downtown Explosion Victims

April 15, 2019

Durham, N.C. – In the aftermath of the devastating explosion that killed Kaffeinate owner Kong Lee and destroyed or damaged multiple properties and businesses downtown, Downtown Durham, Inc. has put together a running list of resources for downtown businesses and residents in need. Visit downtowndurham.flywheelsites.com/bullcitystrongresources to view the list, which will be updated daily or as new resources become available.

“Many business owners and residents are only just now taking stock after the tragedy,” said Nicole J. Thompson, DDI President and CEO. “We are working with our public and private partners to secure office space, grants for repairs or payroll, rent vouchers, employment opportunities – anything that might be needed to help businesses and residents through this time.

“We will keep the page up for as long as needed. In the weeks and months to come, when business owners are making decisions about whether they can or should rebuild in downtown Durham, we want them to know we will be there to help them stay in this community.”

Companies, organizations or individuals with resources to add may do so by completing a form on the site. Business owners who would like to discuss available assistance in more detail may contact Thompson directly at nicole@downtowndurham.com.

DDI is a 501(c) 6 organization, formed in 1993 to serve as a catalyst for downtown revitalization. In 2012, the City created the Downtown Business Improvement District (BID). The Downtown BID is a defined geographic area where property owners pay an additional tax to fund a variety of services that enhance, not replace, existing municipal services within the district’s boundaries. Since the Downtown BID was created, the city has contracted with DDI to provide the following services in the district: Clean & Safe, Economic Development, Marketing and Communications and Special Events.

For 25 years, Downtown Durham, Inc. has been the economic development engine for downtown Durham, NC. With more than $1.8 billion in investment since 2000, downtown Durham is home to more than 60 retail stores, 100 restaurants and bars, and 3,500 residential units – all in an area just under one square mile. As the entity responsible for the business improvement district, DDI provides resources to keep downtown Durham clean and safe, and to attract visitors and residents to downtown businesses, venues and events. For more information, visit downtowndurham.com.

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