Jul. 25—WILKES-BARRE — Most of the fire-damaged rooms in the Genetti apartment complex have been given a certificate of occupancy from Wilkes-Barre City, with a small area still to be approved before complete occupancy can happen.
Gus Genetti, owner, said renters are returning to the apartment complex for the first time since January 2022 when the building was severely damaged by fire.
Mr. Genetti said he has been working with his insurance company since the fire occurred — resulting in $4 million in damage and repairs.
“Yes, this is a happy day,” said Mr. Genetti. “After being closed for three and a half years, we can finally start renting again.”
At the time of the fire, Mr. Genetti said all 105 rooms in what was formerly the Redington Hotel were occupied.
City Administrator Charles McCormick confirmed that most of the space has been certified for occupancy. He said once the remaining area is approved, the city will issue a full certificate of occupancy.
One man died and nearly 125 people were evacuated due to the fire in January 2022. City firefighters responded to the seven-story building at East Market Street and South Pennsylvania Avenue for a fire on the third floor.
At the time, City Fire Chief Jay Delaney said the blaze was contained to an interior third-floor room, while the second and first floors sustained heavy water damage and the upper floors sustained heavy smoke damage.
A preliminary review determined that all six floors were damaged, with the most serious damage to the first five floors.
The Redington Hotel opened in 1906 and is a historic hotel with a rich past. It was a prominent establishment in the area, boasting modern conveniences and attracting notable guests. While the hotel has faced challenges and changes in ownership over the years, it remains a part of the city’s history.
Here’s a more detailed look at Hotel Redington:
—The hotel was built by John A. Redington and designed by the architectural firm McCormick and French.
—It featured amenities like a dining room, telephone exchange, public bath, barber shop, butcher shop, and bakery.
—Comedians Abbott and Costello were among the famous visitors who stayed at the hotel.
—John Redington leased the hotel in 1922 and eventually sold it in 1960 to Morgus Enterprises.
Reach Bill O’Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.