In a bold move to reclaim valuable downtown space, the city of Macon is set to mark New Year’s Eve 2024 with a significant event: the planned demolition of a long-abandoned hotel.
The Macon-Bibb County Commission has given the green light to demolish a 16-story building that has stood vacant for years, a decision made official on a recent Tuesday. This hotel, which was acquired by the city-county for $4.5 million after a federal bankruptcy proceeding, is scheduled for implosion precisely at midnight on December 31, 2024, as part of the city’s New Year’s celebrations.
The storied past of this building includes once hosting famous guests, such as Elvis, and being seized by the New York Banking Department in 1991 due to its involvement in a fraud and money-laundering scheme linked to the Bank of Credit and Commerce International. This notorious financial institution was accused of aiding Saddam Hussein in obscuring Iraqi oil revenues and supporting Oliver North’s arms dealing with Iran.
Despite its illustrious design by Morris Lapidus, known for his Miami Beach hotels, the former Ramada Plaza last welcomed guests in 2017 and has since become an eyesore on the northern edge of Macon’s downtown. Mayor Lester Miller emphasized the necessity of the hotel’s removal: ‘We acquired this property to blow it up,’ he stated with resolve, further noting the building’s structural deficiencies preclude any renovation possibilities.
However, the demolition’s impact on the surrounding area is a concern, particularly for the nearby Christ Episcopal Church. Russ Henry, a member of the church’s governing body, expressed apprehension about potential damage from the explosion to the historic church, especially given its cherished stained glass windows and upcoming 200th anniversary. ‘It’s an eyesore to the whole community, we would love to have something else there,’ Henry remarked, highlighting the shared sentiment for change while urging careful consideration to protect the church during the demolition process.
Mayor Miller has assured residents and neighboring property owners that they will be engaged in discussions to ensure safety during the demolition. Although future plans for the cleared site remain undecided, Miller envisions the potential redevelopment of Macon’s riverfront area, suggesting that whatever replaces the dilapidated structure will significantly benefit the community. Meanwhile, the demolition firm has been contracted to carry out the task with utmost care, emphasizing the importance of precision and safety.
As Macon prepares for the demolition of the obsolete hotel, the event symbolizes not only a farewell to a troubled past but also an opportunity for renewal and development in the heart of the city.
Source: Local10
