Omaha, Nebraska – The former Westmont Inn, located at the intersection of 108th and L streets, has remained an eyesore for several years. Although a fence has been erected around the property, a breached section in the chain link provides unrestricted access to the premises.
Inside the building, the condition remains disarrayed, with graffiti-stained walls and accumulating debris, presenting a far cry from a welcoming establishment.
Don Rowe, the Omaha City Council representative for the area, acknowledges the persisting issues surrounding this property. He emphasizes the urgent need for proactive measures and progress.
Recent efforts have included the installation of a new roof, which serves as a significant investment to safeguard the structure against the elements. Upon conducting interior demolitions, it was discovered that the building itself possesses a sturdy framework, prompting the decision to preserve it by reinforcing the roof.
The new owner, a contractor hailing from Idaho, envisions a renovation that would transform the old Westmont Inn into a senior living facility. Rowe expresses his support for this endeavor, citing the demand for affordable housing and senior living options, and deems the location suitable for such a project.
However, the daunting task of rectifying the current state of disrepair necessitates substantial financial resources, both for interior and exterior remediation. The contractor is actively exploring financing options, while the city is presently unable to condemn the building or fund its demolition due to budgetary constraints.
Rowe acknowledges the fiscal limitations, noting that the city’s demolition budget, set at $800,000, encompasses a range of properties in need of removal, including residential and commercial structures. The renovation project at hand would consume a significant portion of this budget.
While the city’s ability to provide direct assistance remains uncertain, the council has engaged in discussions to explore potential avenues for supporting the new owner in securing the necessary financing to advance the project.
The path forward requires careful consideration, as the financial constraints pose a challenge, but the shared goal of revitalizing the former Westmont Inn remains at the forefront of these deliberations.
