UPDATE: The Woodlands Inn and Resort remains closed indefinitely as officials confirm serious safety violations. The township’s building inspector has not yet met with the owner to address the urgent infractions that led to the closure.
The popular venue was shut down following an inspection after PPL Electric Utilities cut power due to unpaid bills on November 20, 2023. This abrupt decision comes just before one of the busiest nights of the year, Thanksgiving Eve, forcing the cancellation of events including a highly anticipated performance by the ’80s cover band M80.
Building inspector Jason Humenanski stated, “I’m a building inspector. The timing of the closure didn’t influence my decision.” He uncovered multiple “life-safety issues,” including open junction boxes and malfunctioning sprinkler systems, which he described as critical to public safety.
The property, acquired by Shree Neelkanth Realty LLC in January 2022, was previously managed by the Kornfeld family, who had operated the venue for decades. Humenanski noted that he believed the Kornfelds are no longer involved in the management of the Woodlands.
As news of the closure spreads, local businesses feel the impact. Shogun Japanese Restaurant, a tenant at the Woodlands, expressed regret to patrons, urging them to visit sister locations. A couple celebrating their engagement faced evacuation just two days into their week-long stay, highlighting the emotional toll of the closure.
Community organizations are also scrambling. The Swoyersville Sailors mini-football program had planned their annual banquet at the Woodlands, now forced to find a last-minute alternative. “It’s disappointing, especially during a time when booking is hard,” a representative lamented.
While Jerry Mitchell, general manager of Holiday Inn East Mountain, has extended an offer to accommodate displaced events, many remain anxious about the indefinite closure. “We are waiting for more information to pass along,” Shogun wrote in a Facebook post.
With the owner reportedly out of the country, a timeline for reopening remains elusive. Humenanski emphasized the need for a meeting upon their return to establish a clear path forward.
As the situation develops, affected customers and businesses are left in uncertainty. The urgency for a resolution grows as the community anticipates the reopening of this beloved venue. Further updates are expected as officials continue to address safety concerns and work towards restoring operations. Stay tuned for the latest developments on this unfolding story.
