'It was hell' | River businesses begin to reopen after devastating flooding, lengthy cleanup

Louisville businesses counting on Kentucky Derby crowds after historic flooding

The Kentucky Derby is now officially less than two weeks away, and local businesses are desperate for a revenue boost after a difficult winter, historic flooding and the cancellation of Thunder Over Louisville.

'It was hell' | River businesses begin to reopen after devastating flooding, lengthy cleanup

10 days ago, Drew's on the River was nearly submerged under floodwater, with just the roof sticking above water. Now, the restaurant is back open.Owner Ron Schmidt said it wasn't easy, but he credited the quick turnaround to community support."Luckily, a lot of volunteer help," Schmidt said. "It was hell."Schmidt said those volunteers spent 14+ hours each day cleaning the restaurant.WCPO 9 spoke to Schmidt on April 9, where he told us the cleanu…