John Johnston

Completed sale clears the way for redevelopment of long-time Chautauqua Lake landmarkBEMUS POINT, NY - The effort to reopen a historic Chautauqua Lake landmark in Bemus Point has taken a major step forward. Ownership of the Hotel Lenhart has officially been transferred over to William and Jill Curry, doing business as Bemus Point Holdings, LLC. With the transfer of ownership complete, the effort to redevelop and reopen the iconic building can now get underway. The effort to purchase and redevelop the Hotel Lenhart has been underway for more than two-and-half years, with Chautauqua Lake Hospitality first announcing its intention to purchase the property in early 2023 from long-time owners John, Deborah, and Barbara Johnston. That announcement came several months after a sale contract had been finalized in August 2022. In February 2023, the redevelopment project received support through a low-interest loan from the County of Chautauqua Industrial Development Agency (CCIDA). A month later, the CCIDA Board approved additional incentives to support the project. Then, in the summer of 2023, the project received additional support through New York State, with a $1.9 million grant from Empire State Development Consolidated Funding Application (CFA) program. The transaction was completed Friday afternoon, May 2, and Bemus Point Holdings is now the owner of the building. Chautauqua Lake Hospitality, LLC will manage the property. “We are extremely happy to see this process finally over and the sale of the property officially closed,” William Curry said. “This means we can now move our plans forward and reopen this historic building, welcoming visitors from both near and far.”  Hospitality began 143 years ago on this choice location as a small boarding house. The Hotel Lenhart itself has been a major fixture on Chautauqua Lake since the summer of 1882, when the hotel opened, bearing the founder’s name. After a fire in 1891 that destroyed the original building, the current hotel was built in its place, and it’s served as a popular summer-time destination for visitors and area residents each year, until 2020 when the pandemic temporarily halted operations for much of that summer.  It reopened again in 2021 and 2022, when it was placed on the New York State Historic Business Preservation Registry. As the Currys worked on finalizing the sale of the building and grounds, it remained closed in 2023 and 2024. In the past, the Lenhart only operated from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Now that the sale is complete, the Currys can begin their effort to fully renovate the hotel and make it a year-round destination. This major project will include installation of an elevator and other ADA compliant improvements, and the complete renovation of the guest rooms and common areas. The final product will result in a total of 40 guest rooms with all of the modern conveniences, while retaining the historic character of the hotel. An expanded dining area will accommodate guests and visitors, while other amenities will include an event space, spa, and pool. The total cost of the project, which includes the purchase price, is an estimated $9.9 million. Mark Geise, CCIDA CEO, said, “Revitalization of the Lenhart Hotel will directly address a priority goal of tourism development for the region by creating an upscale year-round waterfront attraction that will generate tourism revenues; increase sales, property, and bed tax revenues; enhance local retail and service opportunities in Bemus Point; create jobs; and complement other area attractions. I couldn’t be happier for the Currys, the community, and the region that this project is finally coming to fruition after so many years of hard work. It’s a gem!” "I cannot overstate how elated we are to see the sale of the Lenhart property finally closed”, said Jeffrey Molnar, Bemus Point Mayor. "The Hotel Lenhart has been a part of our rich lake history for more than 130 years. We look forward to continuing our support of the Currys as they work to restore and update one of the last historic grand hotels to a new splendor, making Bemus Point an even stronger community and a favorite destination for visitors and county residents alike for years and decades to come!" “The official sale of the Hotel Lenhart marks an exciting new chapter for one of Chautauqua Lake’s most beloved landmarks. I commend the Currys for their vision and commitment to honoring the rich history of this property while transforming it into a modern, year-round destination. This project is a shining example of how public and private investment can come together to preserve our heritage, boost tourism, and strengthen our local economy. We look forward to the grand reopening and the positive impact this redevelopment will have on Bemus Point and all of Chautauqua County,” said Paul “PJ” Wendel, Jr., Chautauqua County Executive. The Currys are planning to meet with the Bemus Point Planning and Zoning Board for approval of use and renovation plans as soon as possible. The hotel is planned to reopen for the start of the 2026 summer season. Three adjacent “guest houses” will be available for weekly rentals on a year-round basis, beginning in the 2025 summer season. About CCIDA - The CCIDA is an economic development organization authorized and empowered by the State of New York to make Chautauqua County a better place to work, live, and visit. It facilitates development by attracting new businesses, while promoting the retention and expansion of existing businesses. Assistance in the form of incentives – tax abatements, low interest loans, and bond financing – enhances the opportunities for job creation and retention by our businesses. For more information visit ChooseCHQ.com.