The blighted Red Carpet Inn across from the En-Joie Golf Course in West Endicott has been torn down.

Gorick Construction workers demolished the 61-room motel on West Main Street over the past week.

Demolition debris was being loaded into a truck at the old Red Carpet Inn site on May 17, 2024. Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News
Demolition debris was being loaded into a truck at the old Red Carpet Inn site on May 17, 2024. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
loading...

The dilapidated building had been an eyesore for neighbors in recent years. The property is located near the Charles F. Johnson Elementary School.

Although the structure has been knocked down, crews on Friday continued to load large trucks with demolition debris to be hauled to the Broome County landfill.

The Charles F. Johnson Elementary School playground is adjacent to the old Red Carpet Inn property. Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News
The Charles F. Johnson Elementary School playground is adjacent to the old Red Carpet Inn property. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
loading...

The fate of the 1.5-acre site is uncertain. The county, which acquired the property for $600,000 in February, is planning to seek redevelopment proposals.

County officials had wanted the building gone in time for the start of the Dick's Sporting Goods Open golf tournament next month.

The old Red Carpet Inn site on May 17, 2024. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
The old Red Carpet Inn site on May 17, 2024. (Photo: Bob Joseph/WNBF News)
loading...

The motel wasn't always viewed as a neighborhood nuisance. When it opened as the Royal Coachman in April 1963, an advertisement described the place as "ultramodern."

According to the ad: "In order to give their guests the very latest and finest accommodations, the folks at the Royal Coachman hired an electrical servant - Reddy Kilowatt." Guests were promised "complete control of the climate" with electric heating and air conditioning.

Visitors also were encouraged to "enjoy your snack in the Royal Coachman's all electric coffee shop."

Things changed in recent years as the property went through a series of ownership changes. A New Jersey man acquired the site in 2019 for $325,000. His a plan to renovate the building was scrapped.

VIDEO: An inspection of the West Main Street site on May 17, 2024.

WNBF News Radio 1290 AM & 92.1 FM logo
Enter your number to get our free mobile app

Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.

103 iconic photos that capture 103 years of world history

Stacker gathered some of the most iconic images from the past 103 years, beginning in 1918 and leading up to 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Gallery Credit: Rachel Cavanaugh & Elizabeth Ciano

From coast to coast: The 20 best regional fast-food chains to try

From burgers to subs and even creamy milkshakes, these tasty fast-food chains, compiled by Stacker, are a must-try on your next road trip.

Gallery Credit: Kiersten Hickman

READ ON: Weird, wild UFO sightings from throughout history

 

More From WNBF News Radio 1290 AM & 92.1 FM