The city lifted some restrictions along Grade Lane earlier this month, but some businesses are still deciding whether returning is the right choice.
LOUISVILLE, Ky. — More than four months have passed since the UPS plane crash that left 15 people dead and caused millions of dollars in damage along Grade Lane.
The National Transportation Safety Board and city crews have investigated and cleared much of the area. Earlier this month, officials lifted some access restrictions along Grade Lane.
While some businesses have resumed operations and reopened to customers, others — including Stooges and Grade A Auto Parts — continue to weigh their next steps.
Most of the 15 people who died in the crash were employees or customers at Grade A.
“There’s 15 people that perished on that piece of property,” owner and CEO Sean Garber said.
A memorial remains at the site, where a wreath with yellow ribbons hangs from a burned ATM in honor of the victims.
“This is one of the most horrific things that’s happened to this community, and we can’t forget about it,” Garber said.
The property still shows signs of destruction, with burned vehicles, melted aluminum, and bricks from damaged buildings scattered across the area.
Some vehicles still display X marks from the search and rescue efforts following the crash. Several of those cars and trucks belonged to victims.
“All of their cars are still here,” Garber said. “There are some of their belongings that are here.”
Garber’s son, Joey, who serves as COO of Grade A, was on-site when the crash occurred, while Sean was not. Joey said he had been wrapping up work and sending emails when the power suddenly went out and the building shook.
“And saw just a giant plum of black smoke. Then ran over to buildings eight and nine, where the crash was, and started getting people out,” Joey Garber said. “We knew, within about two minutes, who all we didn’t have.”
Both Sean and Joey Garber say they want those responsible for the crash to be held accountable.
As they consider what comes next, Garber said he is still waiting for an environmental impact report. Even if he receives approval to rebuild on Grade Lane, he remains uncertain about moving forward.
“There’s planes that fly over every day on that piece of property,” Garber said. “How does that impact people? Is it the right thing to put a business back in that very spot? Is it, will people even want to go back to that very spot?”
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