Wells: Eastern Market Building OK

Ward 6 Councilmember Tommy Wells says it looks as though Eastern Market’s facade will remain salvageable.

“This really was built as the Rolls-Royce of construction at the time,” he says. “There’s no reason that we’re going to lose this building.”

ADDENDUM, 5:08 P.M.: Now the feds are getting in on the act. From a press release sent by Fenty’s office this afternoon:

Kerry Pushes for Eastern Market Business Loan Assistance

WASHINGTON – Today Sen. John Kerry (D-Mass.), Chairman of the Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, pledged his support for ensuring economic assistance to the small businesses impacted by today’s devastating fire in historic Eastern Market.

“Eastern Market has been a thriving example of how small businesses can be a force for economic development,” said Kerry. “The sense of community created by this Washington landmark reminds me of the energy in Boston’s Faneuil Hall Marketplace. Faneuil Hall burnt down in 1761 but was rebuilt a year later and Eastern Market will also recover from today’s devastating fire. I stand ready to help these small businesses rebuild and get back on their feet quickly.”