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Businesses bouncing back after bloody weekend anniversary

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) – This weekend will mark one year since seven people were shot on the streets of Broad Ripple.

In the weeks that followed, IMPD increased patrols and even shut down the main strip to vehicle traffic on the weekends.

Businesses in the area are awaiting this weekend with bated breath.

“Everyone knows that it is coming up,” said Kyle Luby, the manager of Naked Tchopstix on College Avenue, referring to the shootings.

Luby said his business has taken a hit.

“Later at night, when we’re open at midnight or something on a Saturday, we usually don’t get anything much after 10 p.m.,” said Luby.

But any lasting negative impact depends on who is asked.

“I feel like its always been the same Broad Ripple,” said Abby Silbert, while walking along Broad Ripple Avenue.

“Particularly, there was a drop off last summer, but it seems like Broad Ripple is back in action,” said Joseph Scales, a Broad Ripple resident.

New bars have opened since the shooting, but those who live here said a full comeback will depend on keeping the young people here.

“Broad Ripple has been the heart of the Indy scene with the comedy clubs and the smaller bars. It really seems like the area young people have stuck to,” said Scales.

To calm nerves and help increase safety following the shootings, IMPD brought in additional officers, temporary security cameras and shut down vehicle traffic on Broad Ripple Avenue on weekend nights.

Businesses said they have still seen an increase in police presence, but the cameras are now gone and the road remains open.

IMPD hasn’t said if measures will be increased again.