The waterfront hotel in Punta Gorda, a landmark that has stood for over 50 years, is ready for demolition.
The Punta Gorda Code Enforcement Board voted unanimously for the demolition of the hotel and the adjoining restaurant, Hurricane Charley’s, within the next 120 days. This decision comes after safety concerns and code violations regarding the property.
Dave Gammon, the Director of Charlotte County Economic Development, emphasized the deteriorating condition of the building. “It’s not safe, it’s not good, it’s got to be dilapidated inside, so it’s time to do something,” Gammon stated.
Ahead of the demolition, the property owners have been ordered to put up fencing around the building within 10 days. An assessment will also be conducted to determine if the harbor walk should be closed to pedestrians to ensure safety during the demolition process.
Some neighbors like Nathaniel Kolenda, have emotional ties to the hotel. “It’s very sentimental to me. I very much enjoyed the building being there. It holds a lot of memories,” Kolenda shared.