FRENCH LICK — The West Baden Springs Hotel is reopening their historic atrium to guests after it was temporarily closed from hail damage last month.
The hotel says it will reopen the doors at 5 p.m. on Wednesday, though guests may notice a few changes.
The hotel says coverings have been installed under the glass panels of the hotel. The coverings will be used until all 12 of the glass panels are replaced.
The 12 trapezoidal shaped panels are 42 feet long, 22 feet on the long end and 12 feet on the short end. In total, the dome contains more than 12,000 square feet of glass panels.
The hotel said after the storms the first step to repairs was adding waterproof patching on the dome where hail created holes or severe cracks. Last week, the resort’s engineers and facilities team installed coverings to fit the unique dimensions of the dome.
The atrium has been the hub of activity and focal point of the hotel since it opened in 1902. In 1974, West Baden Springs Hotel was declared a National Historic Landmark. Just this year, it was named one of the top five resorts in the country.
Now, the hotel says guest will be able to enjoy the atrium once again.
"This dome and those glass panels are 121 years old, and we want to return it to its glory,” Chuck Franz, CEO of French Lick Resort said.
Cocktail service at Ballard’s Bar and live music in the atrium will resume Wednesday says the hotel. Dining service will resume in the coming days.
