Renovations of Southern Queen Hotel’s reveal more damage

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – The Southern Queen Hotel is undergoing renovations, but crews have discovered damage to the interior that’s beyond repair.

The hotel was sold back in 2023 to Desmond Bell, who is currently renovating the structure.

However, as you can see by some of the videos Bell Vue Properties have provided to us above, damage to the second floor will require the building to be rebuilt from the ground up. Bell Vue Properties consulted with engineers working on the project.

We spoke to the City of Bowling Green, who has been in contact with Bell about the status of the renovations.

“The city is aware of the status of the project and is in communication with the current owner, Desmond Bell. Mr. Bell encountered significant structural damage that was unknown until he began renovations. The city looks forward to the restoration of the Southern Queen,” says Debi Highland, the City of Bowling Green’s Public Information Officer.

We reached out to the Landmark Trust, a local group that looks to help in the preservation of historic sites like the Southern Queen.

They tell us they’ve been in contact with Bell and city officials as they learn more about the situation.

News 40 will continue to update you on the status of the Southern Queen Hotel.