Capitol Hill pot shop The Reef has reopened after smash and grab burglars totaled its storefront

The Reef, a cannabis retailer in Capitol Hill, reopened its doors for Memorial Day weekend after a three-month closure caused by a burglary that severely damaged its historic storefront. The $300,000 renovation reinforced the 1926-era building and restored protective sidewalk bollards. During the closure, the company prioritized employee welfare by maintaining payroll, ensuring no loss of income despite reduced tip earnings. Local cannabis business owners, including Logan Bowers, emphasize that the rise in smash-and-grab incidents is more about the ease of vehicle theft and less about cash. Law enforcement continues to pursue the suspects involved in The Reef's break-in, which occurred alongside another burglary in the SoDo area.

The city launched a Storefront Repair Fund in 2022 to assist businesses with vandalism repairs, but funding for that program is now closed. The reopening is seen as vital for restoring community and income for the staff, with Jaime Levitt, the general manager, expressing excitement about welcoming back customers. The Reef first opened in 2018 and is a significant part of the local cannabis landscape.