Boylan Bridge Brewpub to reopen this spring

In February 2016, water pressure from a leaky sprinkler caused a wall to collapse at the restaurant and bar, owner Andrew Leager said.

After the collapse, Leager said he told the staff that they'd be reopen in two weeks. After a few more days to assess the damage, Leager knew things weren't going to be that easy to fix.

Crews have worked for more than a year putting in a new sprinkler system, replacing a wall and repairing a caved in roof and other damage.

Leager, a cabinet maker, has a special projects and workstation underneath the restaurant. That space is where the wall collapsed and destroyed thousands of dollars worth of equipment.

The workspace is where Leager is planning to house two other businesses  - Hargett Hill Distillery and Boylan Barrelworks.

Leager said the distillery was a business decision to help put to use the brewery operations without having to expand the mount of beer being brewed.

"This was a business decision to utilize the brewery without competing with all of the other 29 breweries for kegs, fighting for space on grocery store shelves," Leager said.

With seven more years on his lease, Leager will have time to grow the distillery and barrel company

As for the pub, when it reopens expect a more streamlined menu, much larger wine selection and private dining space overlooking the brewery operations. Leager is also looking to put in a fireplace on the patio.