Coast Guard House owners: 'It's not a total loss'

NARRAGANSETT, R.I. (WPRI) - After Monday's powerful storm, coastal landmarks like The Coast Guard House Restaurant in Narragansett were left severely damaged, leaving many wondering what's next for the oceanfront property.

A churning sea during Hurricane Sandy sent waves crashing on to the sea wall and the beloved waterfront restaurant.

• Photos: Coast Guard House damage left by Sandy

Now, one day after the superstorm, what remains is a flooded first floor and a seaside building in need of extensive repairs.

"A lot of busted up tables and chairs, a lot of water under our feet, but hey, the main building is still here," said co-owner Bob Leonard.

The restaurant has been a fixture for many locals and tourists for decades.

Images of the damage seen on social network sites and television left Rhode Islanders wondering what will become of the restaurant.

On Tuesday, the two owners of The Coast Guard House told Eyewitness News their business is not a total loss, and the damage is similar to Hurricane Bob. They said they plan to rebuild this time around as well.

"It's disheartening to look at it. However its a new day, the sun will rise in the east tomorrow; we'll get it done. It will be better than ever," said Judge Frank Caprio, co-owner of The Coast Guard House.

Governor Lincoln Chafee also visited the now boarded up restaurant to see the damage for himself.

"This is similar to Bob in '91, particularly Coast Guard House right here," said Chafee.

The owners of the restaurant said they're hoping to be back open again in a few months.

Crews worked early Tuesday to clean up debris that was scattered in the road under the Towers and in front of The Coast Guard House. People were asked to stay away until work was completed.