Advance Auto Parts reopens new building one year after tornado damage

BOWLING GREEN, Ky.-Nearly a year after the exact date it was destroyed, Advance Auto Parts reopened their doors to a brand new building. 

On December 11, tornadoes spun down Russellville Road, ripping apart everything in its path. All of the walls of the auto parts building were gone, a few shelves still standing. 

In July, the company was given the go ahead to rebuild. The new building is about 10,000 square feet, 3,000 square feet larger than the old one…and with more inventory as well. 

The general manager Kyle Gerkins said he’s been a part of this region of Bowling Green for 30 years, and was unsure if it would be able to be rebuilt. 

“The emotions of being able to reopen this store in the neighborhood on Russellville Road is overwhelming. We have a beautiful new building and we’re very proud of what’s been done to get it built and be able to still be here on Russellville Road taking care of everybody,” said Gerkins. 

The company also awarded the Bowling Green Fire Department with a plaque for their life saving efforts during the tornado.