Hurricane Sally in Pensacola: A Drone Tour of Damage
In the wake of Hurricane Sally, which struck Pensacola in September 2020, the extent of the destruction has been laid bare through drone footage captured by Sam Perry. This aerial perspective reveals the significant impact the storm had on the region, particularly on landmarks and businesses that have long been integral to the community.
The Pensacola Grand Hotel: A Landmark in Limbo
One of the most notable casualties of Hurricane Sally is the Pensacola Grand Hotel, a towering 15-story structure that has stood as a city landmark for decades. Since the hurricane, the hotel’s doors have remained closed, and there are no signs of reopening. Owned by Holi Corp, the hotel has not undergone any repairs since the storm, despite the city issuing a repair permit shortly after the hurricane. This permit expired without any inspections or work being completed, leaving the building in a state of disrepair.
Kaycee Lagarde, the public information officer for the city of Pensacola, confirmed that the city has not received any requests for inspections related to the hotel. “Our inspections office has not received any requests to visit the building, and we do not have any code cases on it,” she stated. The lack of progress has raised concerns among local officials and residents alike.
Community Concerns and Future Prospects
City Council member Allison Patton, whose district includes the hotel, expressed her concerns about the property’s future. “I think that particular piece of property, given its proximity to the Bay Center and the hotel rooms that it supplied to the city, are very important,” she noted. Patton hopes that the hotel can be rehabilitated or that a new owner will step in to revitalize the site for the community’s benefit.
The Pensacola Grand Hotel has a rich history, originally serving as the Louisville & Nashville Railroad Passenger Depot and Express Office, built in 1912. After ceasing operations as a train station in 1971, it was transformed into a hotel in 1984, offering 210 rooms and becoming a popular venue for events, weddings, and military reunions.
Memories of Hospitality
Nancy Halford, who managed the hotel for a decade, reminisced about the challenges the hotel faced after previous storms, particularly Hurricane Ivan. “I think back with Ivan, we were racked by a tornado, it racked the building causing all the window seals to break,” she recalled. Halford emphasized the importance of the hotel as a gateway for many visitors, especially those connected to the military and naval aviation.
The hotel’s lobby, filled with U.S. Navy memorabilia, served as a nostalgic space for many guests who had connections to the area. Halford fondly remembered the stories shared by guests, many of whom had traveled through the old train station, making the hotel a significant part of their journey.
The Road Ahead
As the community looks to the future, there is hope that the Pensacola Grand Hotel will eventually reopen. Patton suggested that the area surrounding the hotel could benefit from more attention from city and county officials, especially as discussions continue regarding the renovation or replacement of the aging Pensacola Bay Center.
While there has been some interest in the hotel property, no concrete plans have been submitted to the city. “Although we have received inquiries about the property, no permit applications or development plans have been submitted to the city,” Lagarde confirmed.
A Community Ready for Revival
The longing for the hotel’s return is palpable among former guests. One reviewer expressed their enthusiasm for the hotel’s reopening, stating, “We loved it! Love the look of the hotel and the staff was always so nice. Hope they re-open soon so we can stay here again!” This sentiment reflects the broader desire within the community to see the Pensacola Grand Hotel restored to its former glory.
As Pensacola continues to recover from the devastation of Hurricane Sally, the fate of the Pensacola Grand Hotel remains uncertain. However, the hope for revitalization persists, fueled by the memories of its past and the potential for a brighter future. The community stands ready to welcome back a cherished landmark that has long been a part of its identity.