Some businesses damaged by a tornado in Colonial Heights last week are back up and running, but a handful are weeks from reopening, authorities said.

About 25 businesses sustained damage April 28 when a tornado ripped through the Southpark Mall area, causing about $2 million in damage and injuring about 20 people. The tornado was one of 10 that hit the state that day.

Some affected businesses in Colonial Heights -- such as the Target store, which sustained roof and damage to the front doors -- reopened for business the next day.

For others, reopening has been more of a struggle. Southpark Carpet & Flooring Outlet on Roslyn Avenue opened the front part of the store Wednesday, said saleswoman Julie Robertson. The tornado blew the roof off and most of the carpets were soaked. The back of the store still needs more work. The damage estimate is still unknown, she said.

Medallion Swim Pool Co. Inc. at 840 W. Roslyn Road reopened Friday, but repairs continue on the most damaged area of the store. The tornado ripped open the roof.

The reopening dates for Payless ShoeSource, America's Best Eyeglass & Contacts, Dress Barn and Shoe Carnival in the Dimmock Square shopping center on Southpark Boulevard have not changed from the 30 days estimated right after the tornado hit, said Colonial Heights Fire Chief A.G. Moore Jr. Those businesses are still boarded up.

Midge Knowles, a manager for Payless, said employees were packing up the store this week so the necessary repairs can be made.
Contact Juan Antonio Lizama at (804) 649-6513 or jlizama@timesdispatch.com.