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Fire-damaged chain restaurant set to reopen after restoration

Fire-damaged chain restaurant set to reopen after restoration

Jonathan Keilholz
Sonic appears to be planning to reopen in Columbus

The Columbus Sonic Drive-In that closed after a fire earlier this year appears to be moving closer to reopening.

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According to City of Columbus building permit records reviewed by 614NOW, restoration work is underway at the restaurant at 3250 Olentangy River Rd.

One permit authorizes restoration of the fire-damaged drive-thru. Permit records show the project includes reconstructing a damaged exterior wall, replacing fire-damaged roof framing, restoring the roof assembly and installing new plumbing, lighting, electrical components and other building systems. The permit notes the building will be restored to its pre-fire condition while incorporating code-required upgrades.

A second permit reviewed by 614NOW authorizes interior demolition work ahead of reconstruction. According to the project description, crews are removing drop ceilings, HVAC ductwork and kitchen hoods inside the building as restoration continues.

The restaurant has been closed since a fire damaged the building earlier this year. At the time, 614NOW reported that the fire forced the fast-food restaurant to temporarily shut down while repairs were assessed.

Neither the building permits nor Sonic have confirmed a reopening date, but the approved restoration work indicates the project appears to be moving forward.

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