After a fire in July damaged two historic buildings in downtown Madison, Preston Snyder, a real estate developer and founder of MAD Hospitality, is leading efforts to help the community recover.
On July 13, a blaze destroyed Betty Gene’s restaurant, which Snyder named after his late mother. The fire also affected the offices of MAD Hospitality and Thomas Preston Real Estate. The Sinclair, an al fresco dining concept run by Snyder, was damaged but has since reopened. Community Roots Market, owned by Snyder’s wife Cindi Fetch, suffered significant damage as well.
The Sinclair reopened on July 22 after repairs to address smoke and water damage. Its original reinforced masonry walls helped limit the destruction. On July 24, Betty Gene’s relaunched as a pop-up at Buggy Works, another adaptive reuse project led by Snyder that focuses on private events.
Community Roots Market is considering options for a partial reopening. The market had operated from the former gas station garage and used handmade shelving reclaimed from other projects led by Snyder.
Snyder said: “This isn’t about bricks and mortar. The Sinclair, Betty Gene’s, and Community Roots Market are more than just businesses. They’re gathering places, anchors of our downtown and pillars of Madison’s small-town spirit. Partially restoring them means bringing back a sense of normalcy, pride, and connection for the entire community,” he says, adding that broader redevelopment plans for the damaged building are in the works.
Snyder’s recovery efforts will allow about twelve employees to return to work following the fire. He has previously received recognition for his commitment to historic preservation and adaptive reuse in Madison.
MAD Hospitality develops chef-driven culinary concepts in restored historical spaces around Madison, located roughly an hour from Atlanta. Other projects completed by Snyder include restaurants and event venues such as The Dining Room, Hart & Crown Tavern, The Patisserie on Main, and The New South Motor Inn.