DUNEDIN, Fla. -- After almost two years, construction at the historic Fenway Hotel in Dunedin is nearly complete.
- Construction nearly done at historic Fenway Hotel in Dunedin
- Fenway Hotel to keep historical charm
- Hotel expected to open in October
Imagine walking through the main entrance into the lobby bar, complete with a stage for live music -- a nod to the building's roots in radio. The Fenway housed Pinellas County's first radio station back in 1925.
And the hotel's restaurant, Hew Chophouse, are the initials of the hotel's original architect. "Hew" also means to cut or chop.
The goal was to keep as much of the building's historical charm as possible.
"We're doing all the things to make it look good and be structurally sound, but otherwise it's going to look like it did back in the 20's," Joe Collier, President of Mainsail Lodging and Development, said.
There will also be a resort-style pool and deck, along with 80 plus guest rooms.
However, the most notable new feature is the rooftop bar with stunning views of the water -- all the way to Caladesi and Honeymoon Islands.
Collier said the place will be a hit with hotel guests and locals alike.
"What do people want? When you open a hotel in a neighborhood like this, what are people looking for," Collier said.
He believes it is the new mixed with the old -- exactly what Fenway has to offer.
The hotel is expected to open by the end of October.