Frequently Asked Questions
Question: Are you planning to preserve the existing buildings on site?
Answer: Preserving the history and cultural heritage of the Cal Neva is a key focus of our revitalization efforts. Our top priority has been focused on the structural integrity of the historic lodge portion of the main building. Our overall goal is to preserve, revitalize, and breathe new life into the historic places: the Circle Bar, lodge, casino, and showroom. The previous cabins and wedding chapel, however, were no longer habitable, and posed a safety hazard. They have been removed as a part of our pre-construction site work.
Question: Will the local community be welcome at the Cal Neva?
Answer: We believe that the long-term success of Cal Neva depends on the local community embracing the project. If it is a place where the locals love to come, then visitors will want to come also. We understand how important the Cal Neva property is to the community and are excited to showcase many spaces for locals to enjoy such as: the Circle Bar, casino, new restaurants, the Showroom, and the historic lodge. We are also planning flexible meeting spaces that will accommodate small and medium-sized groups for local gatherings, social events, weddings and corporate meetings. It continues to be incredibly heartwarming to hear and read the Cal Neva stories and memories so many people have shared with us about their experiences through the years at Cal Neva. We look forward to creating new memories with the community.
Question: What is the project timeline?
Answer: While there are many factors involved to affect our possible opening date, we remain hopeful to open in 2026 in conjunction with Cal Neva's 100th Anniversary.
Question: What is the latest update on the project?
Answer: Structural reinforcement work is underway to preserve the beloved historic lodge (formerly the Indian Room), Circle Bar and Celebrity Showroom. These structures have been abandoned for more than a decade with significant weather impacts requiring an above and beyond effort to save. Hence, engineering assessments, structural upgrades, and environmental abatement is in progress on the historic lodge and low-rise. Additionally, pre-construction site improvements are focused on enhancing stormwater systems, making utility upgrades to improve the surrounding environment, bringing back native landscaping, and improving lake health. Crews are also conducting forest health activities including ladder fuel reduction and wildfire mitigation to improve fire safety of the area. As we continue with the planning and design of the Revitalize Cal Neva project, we are grateful for, and have taken to heart, the input and feedback we've received from the community for more than a year now since we purchased the Cal Neva in 2023. Thank you for your ongoing involvement and support.
Question: What about increased traffic and congestion?
Answer: We are actively engaged with local transportation partners. Working in collaboration, our goal is to create a suite of transportation offerings and solutions for our employees and guests. We are focused on walkability, e-bikes, local and regional transit, micro transit, and other options. Following the redevelopment, hotel guests will be encouraged to park their cars and utilize public transit, shuttles, bikes, and pathways. As a part of the overall revitalization plan, we have focused on creating robust social and recreational amenities to encourage guests to remain on site, or use the available transportation options during their stays.
Question: What will happen with the tunnels underneath the property?
Answer: Most of the historic tunnels underneath the property had long ago been filled in during previous ownerships. Though the tunnels currently present public safety threats, we continue to look at how we might be able to stabilize and safely use parts of the remaining tunnels underneath the historic lodge.
If any issues occur or you have any questions, please send an email to constructioncalneva@mcwhinney.com and we will respond to you.
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