NJ Patch: Hackensack Daycare Reopens After 6-Month Closure From Water Damage

Six months after the new Lightbridge Academy in Hackensack opened, a break in the fire suppression system caused extensive water damage, forcing the early education and child care center to effectively shut down. Six months later, owner Larry Showfety says the center at 215 Union Street is returning better and stronger.

"It was heartbreaking," Showfety said, adding that Lightbridge Academy staff and families were given the option to move to a sister location owned by another franchisee.

Six out of 10 classrooms required significant repairs, and building workers had to remove the equivalent of three dumpsters full of debris from drywall, flooring and the ceiling. Despite the setback, the center is celebrating its grand reopening. Showfety and his team are excited to welcome back families and get back to serving the community.