A local staple of downtown Warren, The Sandwich Shop, will close its doors on Thursday, March 30.
The Sandwich Shop, owned by Johnny and Jennifer Bradford, was established 27 years ago in 1996.
The Bradfords, along with their downtown neighbors on the block, were forced to shut down due to structural damage to the buildings. The city had the buildings inspected after street crews discovered damage and debris on the sidewalk in January.
The Bradfords expressed their frustration with being forced to shut down. Jennifer Bradford told The Eagle Democrat she understood the reason, but they didn’t like the way it was being handled.
“I hate to see the old buildings go,” said Jennifer Bradford. “but if they think [the buildings] are a hazard, they have to go.”
They hope to find a new building to open up shop, but they said they haven’t had any luck yet.
Jennifer Bradford said people in the community have been supportive even during the pandemic. They were able to keep employees and stayed open during the pandemic.
The Bradfords said they appreciate every customer they’ve had. Some of their customers have even helped them look for a new building.
“Our customers have been wonderful, nothing but supportive. They’ve kept us open,” said Jennifer Bradford.
No timeframe has been given for the demolition of those buildings at this time. The city hopes to have it done before the Pink Tomato Festival.
