Pagoda Motel is demolished

Ben Casto
·1 min read

BECKLEY, WV (WVNS) — A building that’s been a fixture in the City of Beckley for decades was torn down on Tuesday, March 19, 2024.

Beckley Mayor Rob Rappold says the Pagoda Motel has become a haven for squatters in recent years.

Beckley Chief Code Enforcement Officer urges public to identify houses to tear down

The building began life as a supermarket with a hardware store in the basement area. Later on, it became a restaurant and finally a motel.

Rappold said he has watched the Pagoda progress from being a successful business to the neglected building it is today.

“Pagoda Motel became a place were police officers didn’t look forward to have to go to correct issues because it was downright dangerous,” said Rappold.

Mayor Rappold said several businesses and entrepreneurs have expressed an interest in developing the property once the building is demolished.

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