UPDATE: The future of the Woodlands Inn and Resort remains uncertain as no timeline has been established for its reopening. The popular venue was shut down by Plains Township officials due to serious safety violations, following a power cut by PPL Electric Utilities for unpaid bills on Monday.
Officials report that the township’s building inspector, Jason Humenanski, has not yet met with the owner, who is currently out of the country. “It would be irresponsible to establish a timeline without talking to the other party,” Humenanski stated, emphasizing the need for communication before any decisions can be made.
The Woodlands, a beloved venue known for its vibrant entertainment, was abruptly closed just before one of its busiest nights, Thanksgiving Eve. The shutdown has led to the cancellation of a scheduled performance by the band M80 and the annual Thanksgiving buffet, causing significant disruption for guests and staff alike.
Humenanski identified multiple “life-safety issues” during his inspection, including exposed electrical junction boxes and malfunctioning sprinkler systems. He assured that the restoration of power by PPL Electric does not address the critical code violations that must be resolved before the property can reopen.
Local businesses are feeling the impact as well. The Shogun Japanese Restaurant, a tenant within the Woodlands, has reached out to customers via Facebook, apologizing for the inconvenience and directing them to other locations. “We are anxiously waiting for more information,” the restaurant stated, highlighting the uncertainty facing all tenants.
One couple, who were celebrating their engagement, shared their frustration after being evacuated just two days into their week-long stay. Another local group, the Swoyersville Sailors mini-football program, expressed disappointment over the cancellation of their annual banquet, which was set to take place at the Woodlands this Saturday. “We’re now scrambling to find a new venue,” a representative lamented, reflecting the broader impact of the closure on the community.
Meanwhile, Jerry Mitchell, general manager of the Holiday Inn East Mountain, has stepped in to offer assistance. His hotel has already booked some events previously scheduled at the Woodlands and is available to accommodate others seeking alternative venues.
As the situation develops, local authorities urge the community to remain patient. Updates on the reopening timeline will be communicated as soon as the owner returns and discussions commence. The Woodlands Inn’s future hinges on resolving these safety concerns, and residents are left anxiously awaiting the next steps.
Stay tuned for further updates on this urgent story as we continue to monitor developments surrounding the Woodlands Inn and Resort.
