Scotch Plains pub reopens after flash flood damage
Monday’s storm was the third time that Darby Road Public House and Restaurant flooded.
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As floodwaters rose in Scotch Plains Monday night, one downtown pub offered a refuge for those needing to wait out the storm.
Monday’s storm was the third time that Darby Road Public House and Restaurant flooded. General manager Donna Miller says this one was the worst.
“This one rose faster,” Miller said. “This time, the water came in from just about everywhere. It was coming in through the moldings and also from the tops of the windows because it was raining sideways. We got to about three inches, we kind of gave up.”
Police told those inside not to leave the building. The pub offered free food to those stuck inside, and those who needed a place to go. One of the Darby Road vans was also stranded in the flood.
It took the work of 30 people to get Darby Road up and running. By Wednesday, the floors and furniture had been dried and sanitized. Fortunately, the kitchen was spared.
The managers still aren't sure how much insurance can cover.
“It's not looking so good,” Miller said. “Hopefully, we can file for something. But I don't think this was under the umbrella of our insurance.”
Miller says some of the guests inside were unfazed by the water pouring in from Park Avenue.
“Generally speaking, it didn't seem to bother that many people, to be honest with you,” Miller said. “It was kind of almost like a novelty. They're like, ‘Oh, we're sitting in water!’ But we're just blessed, we're thankful.”
