Imploding a 16-story downtown hotel: Macon-Bibb to ring in New Year with more than just fireworks and sparklers

Macon-Bibb County has a pretty big New Year’s resolution — imploding a 16-story hotel in downtown Macon on New Year’s Day at 9 a.m.

The now vacant 200,00-square-foot hotel on the corner of Riverside Drive, First Street, and Walnut Street at 108 1st St. sits on 2.2 acres. 

The hotel has changed hands several times since its inception in 1969 and the county obtained the property in January of 2024.

For nearly $2.5 million, Macon-Bibb has contracted with Target Contractors, LLC to carry out the demolition project.

Target contractors are working with the public and nearby businesses to answer questions and keep folks informed about the process. A public forum is currently in the works to provide more information.

“The way you start your new year is how you spend your entire year,” Mayor Lester Miller said in a press release. “So we’re going big and taking down a blighted building, making way for economic and community development, and bringing people together to remember our past and celebrate our future, all at the same time.”