Historic Everglades Depot Faces Foreclosure as Repairs Stall Again

Historic Everglades Depot Faces Foreclosure as Repairs Stall Again

The historic railroad depot in Everglades City, a building that first opened its doors in 1928, is facing an uphill battle as restoration efforts seem to be stalling yet again. Owner Bill Odrey has encountered a series of setbacks, most notably the expiration of his roofing permit on May 26, leading to daily fines of $150. The situation reached a critical point as deteriorating conditions have led city officials to consider foreclosure procedures, as discussed in the August 5 city council meeting.

Since Odrey purchased the depot in 2014, he has been granted numerous opportunities to complete necessary repairs, which have seemingly gone unheeded. The roof bears significant damage, with open spots exposing the interior to the elements. According to Naples News, much of this is due to delayed repairs since the depot began deteriorating in 2019, turning it into an eyesore for a community full of noise and character.

A Historical Gem in Decline

After its heyday as a bustling passenger and freight hub that lasted until 1956, the depot transitioned to various businesses, including the Old Station Restaurant and Everglades Seafood Depot. But since 1956, its experience has been fraught with setbacks, such as damage from hurricanes and ongoing permit violations. Notably, Odrey previously operated parts of the building as a restaurant until 2019 but was forced to shut its doors due to permitting issues.

In light of these troubles, local officials have begun to apply pressure on Odrey to take decisive action: the building is in dire need of repairs, or he may need to consider selling or donating it to someone who can ensure its future. The county fire officials and code enforcement have deemed the building unsafe for occupancy until all necessary repairs are made. As Everglades City Attorney Zach Lombardo pointed out, the expired permit signals a troubling sign of non-compliance efforts by Odrey.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

Odrey has publicly vowed to restore the depot for community use. However, securing the necessary funding has proven challenging, leaving many residents concerned. The upcoming months are pivotal for the depot’s restoration efforts, with further updates expected to be revealed soon, as reported by Visit Everglades City.

With a code enforcement meeting scheduled for August 19 to discuss potential fines and the future of the property, much hinges on Odrey’s ability to move forward. The community eagerly hopes this historic structure can be saved, as it holds significant cultural value and historical charm that define Everglades City.

As the situation evolves, residents remain on the lookout, expressing a mix of frustration and hope for a building that has done a good deal in shaping the city’s history. The plight of the depot serves as a reminder of the delicate balance between preservation and progress in our rapidly changing world.