FOND DU LAC, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – A historic building in downtown Fond du Lac is set to reopen this winter. The $25 million Hotel Retlaw project started earlier this year.
Principal partner of Legendary Hotels, LLC, Dennis Doucette, tells FOX 11 the renovation will reveal some of the historic architecture.
“We have to be responsible to the National Parks Service and State of Wisconsin Historical Society that we try and salvage everything we can, that’s our approach on this project.”
From the hotel’s original windows to tiles and ceilings, Doucette said the goal is to bring the hotel to its original 1923 splendor.
The eight-story hotel on North Main Street suddenly closed in December of 2015 due to financial troubles.
About six months later, the hotel was purchased by Legendary Hotels.
“As far as a downtown chic luxury property, we feel like we have a business plan that will be successful,” said Doucette.
Co-partner Steve Frantz tells FOX 11 the extensive renovation includes a refurbished pool, and luxury spa in the basement and a grand ballroom on the third floor.
“We need a venue like this for weddings, the crystal ballroom is an amazing venue for weddings.”
Hotel Retlaw will have 127 guest rooms and suites.
Doucette said the hotel will bring about 35,000 travelers to the area every year. The hotel is also estimated to have an economic impact of $25 million annually.
“I think about in 6 months you’re going to see a dramatic change to this corner.”
Between 140 to 150 full-time jobs will also be created.
“We’re starting fresh so every position in the hospitality industry is available at the hotel,” Frantz said.
And when the doors open in mid-December, both owners hope it’ll bring vibrancy back to the area.
The hotel says that opening date should be December 17th with room rates expected to start at $109 per night.
