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Kinston Plaza Post Office restores full counter service nearly three years after EF-1 tornado damage

While the facility partially reopened for P.O. box access last September, residents can now once again purchase stamps, ship packages, and access all in-person services.
Don Hardy
While the facility partially reopened for P.O. box access last September, residents can now once again purchase stamps, ship packages, and access all in-person services.

After nearly three years of recovery, a vital piece of the Kinston community is finally back at full strength.

The Kinston Plaza Post Office on North Herritage Street has restored full counter service, marking a complete comeback from the EF-1 tornado that devastated the building in June 2023. While the facility partially reopened for P.O. box access last September, residents can now once again purchase stamps, ship packages, and access all in-person services.

Former Mayor Don Hardy praised the milestone as a testament to local resilience. He said, “This journey reflects the unity and strength of the Kinston community. What began as a devastating setback has now come full circle.”

Local leaders also extended thanks to Congressman Don Davis for his role in pushing the recovery process forward.

Annette is originally a Midwest gal, born and raised in Michigan, but with career stops in many surrounding states, the Pacific Northwest, and various parts of the southeast. An award-winning journalist and mother of four, Annette moved to eastern North Carolina in 2019 to be closer to family – in particular, her two young grandchildren. It’s possible that a -27 day with a -68 windchill in Minnesota may have also played a role in that decision. In her spare time, Annette does a lot of kiddo cuddling, reading, and producing the coolest Halloween costumes anyone has ever seen. She has also worked as a diversity and inclusion facilitator serving school districts and large corporations. It’s the people that make this beautiful area special, and she wants to share those stories that touch the hearts of others. If you have a story idea to share, please reach out by email to westona@cravencc.edu.