Macon to blow up 16-story hotel on New Year's Day 2025
- The city of Macon, Georgia is set to implode a vacant 16-story hotel on January 1, 2025, at 9 a.m. EST.
- Macon purchased the hotel for $4.5 million and allocated $2.6 million for its demolition to aid economic development.
- The event symbolizes a fresh start for the community, although it raises concerns from a neighboring historic church about potential damage.
In Macon, Georgia, a plan is underway to mark the arrival of the new year with the demolition of a vacant 16-story hotel. Scheduled for January 1, 2025, at 9 a.m. EST, this event will serve as both a celebration and a means to address the blighted building in the downtown area. The former hotel, once a lively establishment opened in 1970 that even hosted Elvis Presley, has been a symbol of decline, particularly since it was seized in 1991 due to alleged fraudulent activities. Despite numerous attempts over the years to repurpose or renovate the dilapidated structure, each initiative has faltered due to significant challenges, including outdated designs and non-compliance with modern fire and safety regulations. The Macon-Bibb County government, understanding the critical need for economic revitalization, purchased the building for $4.5 million during a federal bankruptcy proceeding and is set to spend an additional $2.6 million on the demolition process.