Rahall discussed some of the problems and successes he and his crew had experienced over the past several months. Apparently, in all his years of owning an running the lodging facility, Rahall said he has been unable to find a set of plans for the hotel.
“It appears that there never were any plans filed for the hotel. Of course, back then, there were not nearly as many permits and inspections as there are now,” he said.
But, as Rahall put it, “there are opportunities in disaster.” He hopes to restore the hotel to its original grandeur including the re-installation of original hardware, the construction of a deck that would wrap around the hotel and possibly the inclusion of a restaurant on the property.
In an effort to comply with American Disabilities Act, Rahall said they were working on plans to try to reinvigorate the hotel’s original elevator system.
“I believe the Kenilworth sits on the best piece of land in town,” he said. “It’s a destination location.”
It’s a straight shot from the hotel out to the Sebring International Raceway – something not lost on Rahall who descibed himself as a rabid race fan. In fact, he said, he is related to 12 Hours of Sebring winner and Raceway Hall of Fame member Bobby Rahal.
“I even named my son McLaren, after the famous driver Bruce McLaren.” Rahall said. “People think I named him after the car. No, it was after the driver.
Bruce McLaren won many races, including the 1959 American Grand Prix in Sebring. It was the first Formula One race to be held in the United States.
Meantime, the exterior of the Kenilworth Lodge continues to draw attention. From the landscaping, to the large “K” between the towers, to the giant K along Lakeview Drive, Rahall has branded the building. In fact, they have illuminated the towers.
The landmark now can be seen at night from Highway 27 across Lake Jackson.
“This hotel really belongs to the residents, we are going to do our best to make everyone proud of this property,” Rahall said.
But if you want to stay there you’d better call soon. There’s already a line of locals and out-of-towners who want to enjoy the new Kenilworth experience.
