Kingsbridge florist reopens after destructive fire

Connie Dennis' family opened the florist more than 60 years ago. It's become a community staple in Kingsbridge.

Heather Fordham

Oct 31, 2024, 9:55 PM

Updated 3 hr ago

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Columbia Florist is officially back open for business.
A massive fire at the family-operated florist tore through a row of businesses on West 231st Street last December. Five businesses were destroyed, including a meat and seafood market, a deli and a barbershop.
For the last 10 months, manager Connie Dennis says they have been repairing the store that had smoke damage, leaks and a destroyed roof.
They temporarily reopened for Valentine's Day to turn a profit for their busiest day of the year.
Dennis' family opened the florist more than 60 years ago. It's become a community staple in Kingsbridge.
"This has been one of the happiest days of my life to come back to our neighborhood after we've been away so long and the customers are so supportive, the phone calls the gifts, we are so happy to be here," said Dennis.