Petersburg warns developer to repair or raze blighted hotel, or city will
April 29, 2021 8
A sign announcing plans for the building stands in front of the former Ramada Inn between East Washington and Wythe streets in Petersburg. (
Jonathan Spiers photos)
As it starts work on another building in South Richmond that it purchased less than a year ago, the development firm that more than five years ago announced plans to redevelop the former Ramada Inn in Petersburg is facing an ultimatum from that city to take action on the property.
City leaders in Petersburg said in a news conference Wednesday that they intend to obtain a court order requiring property owner C.A. Harrison Cos. to repair or demolish the blighted hotel building along Interstate 95 that’s become more of an eyesore than it was in late 2015, when the firm announced plans for a $20 million rehab.
The Progress-Index
PETERSBURG – Wheels have been set into motion that could signal the end of the old Ramada Inn on Washington Street. The derelict hotel has drawn criticism for the better part of a decade because of its unsightly welcome to the city, and the number of perceived broken development promises along the way.
Petersburg has attempted to keep the building in compliance with code violations, but is now threatening to tear the building down itself if the owner does not take actions.
A unanimous vote from City Council Tuesday will compel hotel owner Chris Harrison to demolish or fix the the building. If he fails to do so, Petersburg can do it for him and recoup the cost in court or by placing a lien on the property. That action also labeled the building’s condition a hazard to the health and safety of the public.