Williamson Street Businesses Rebound After 2 Weeks of Corey Ruiz Protests
Updated
Updated · WMTV · Aug 6
Williamson Street Businesses Rebound After 2 Weeks of Corey Ruiz Protests
3 articles · Updated · WMTV · Aug 6
Summary
Nearly two weeks after protests and road closures followed the fatal police shooting of Corey Ruiz, Williamson Street businesses said traffic is returning and the neighborhood is starting to feel normal again.
Willalby’s Cafe owner Nathan Prince said sales ran at about two-thirds of normal during the disruption after protesters urged him to close, but he kept operating to avoid hurting employees and his own finances.
Prince said regulars, over-tipping customers and protesters buying food and cooling off inside helped offset some losses from patrons who stayed away.
At Gib’s Bar, lead bartender Taylor Swanson said tips fell to about $50 per worker on one recent day versus a usual $100, even as staff kept doors open, offered bathrooms, air conditioning and drinks, and reported no hostility from protesters.
Business owners said they still support police reform and the community response, but want future activism to continue without further damaging the corridor’s small businesses.