Businesses Sue over Virginia Flooding in 2004

Nineteen businesses are suing the city of Richmond, Virginia over flood damage caused by Tropical Storm Gaston’s remnants in 2004.

The lawsuit accuses the city of gross and willful negligence in the operation of its drainage and sewer systems.

All the businesses operated in the downtown Shockoe Bottom neighborhood.

The lawsuit seeks $25 million in damages, along with punitive damages of $350,000 for each business.

City spokeswoman Tammy Hawley says city officials haven’t seen the lawsuit and she couldn’t comment.

The city has spent $20 million on drainage improvements in the past three years.