‘So close to the finish line’: Federal shutdown stalls Richmond brewery’s expansion plans

RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) -- Week three of the federal government shutdown is leaving its mark on local businesses -- including Brainstorm Brewhouse.

For two years, Brainstorm Brewhouse has been serving freshly brewed drinks in Scott’s Addition.

This summer, the owners decided to expand, opening a new location called Bolo's Eatery on Hull Street, but the government shutdown has thrown a wrench in their plans.

"We have to have a federal license to produce alcohol, through the government. So usually that window is about 90 days,” said Darryl Puller, head brewer of Brainstorm Brewhouse.

Puller said they submitted their federal brewing license application in July, hoping to have everything ready for the launch in September. Unfortunately, the shutdown paused federal activity just as they were about to be approved.

"They're not accepting any applications now," Puller said "I'm frustrated because I feel like I'm just sitting around doing nothing.”

Puller said the restaurant still opened in September, and they are still able to serve alcohol with beer from a distributer. However, things have still been difficult to navigate.

"It's costing us money," he said. "It's very frustrating. The whole point of the brewery is to make beer. We have 20 taps here, and we can't do anything."

As the shutdown continues with no clear end in sight, local breweries like Brainstorm are left waiting for federal approval to move forward with their expansion plans.

"We have worked very hard to get to this point, and we're so close to the finish line, and just to see this hurdle out of our control is very frustrating, very disheartening," said head beer taster and business partner C.M. Bryant.

Puller said despite the setback, he's ready to start brewing as soon as the license is approved.

For more information on the restaurant as they continue to serve food and drinks through the shutdown, click here.