11/04/2024
BOWLING GREEN, KY (November 4, 2024) – Construction on the historic Southern Queen Hotel, located at 140 State Street in the Shake Rag neighborhood, is currently underway. The property was awarded to Bell Vue Properties by the City of Bowling in January, after an official application and vetting process.
Bell Vue Properties owner, Desmond Bell, had an interest in The Southern Queen for several years prior to the City’s acquisition of the property and subsequent RFP. As a lifelong Bowling Green resident, he is dedicated to the continued success of the City, particularly its historically Black neighborhoods.
Bell has invested in the redevelopment of other Bowling Green areas, including ten properties near the College Hill Historic District, and he has created multiple single-family, affordable homes along Kenton Street and Greenwood Alley. His company has become a reliable source for redevelopment and quality construction that brings new life to areas that were otherwise neglected.
The Southern Queen is the next step in Bell’s vision of creating a legacy of renewed prosperity for Bowling Green’s African-American heritage. As outlined in his proposal to the City, he plans to restore the hotel to its original glory and maintain its historical identity. The new hotel will feature a grand gallery that tells the story of more than 100 years of family tradition and Black-owned business. There will also be multiple suites for lodging, a business center, and an outdoor courtyard for leisure.
Bell planned to salvage as much of the original structure as possible. Once crews began dismantling the interior, it was discovered that most of the structural integrity was compromised beyond repair due to fire and water damage. Bell and his consulting engineers determined that the best course of action was to eliminate most of the original materials and completely rebuild from the ground up. Their top priority is to ensure that the structure is safe and will last for many generations to come.
While construction continues, Bell Vue Properties is also working on the new business plan for The Southern Queen Hotel. It will include opportunities for public tours, special events and community enrichment programs. A new website will be launched in January, 2025 that will serve as a hub for information about the hotel’s history, as well as regular updates about its redevelopment. Also, the rebuilding process is being captured by a video production company, and a documentary will be released once the hotel reopens.
Desmond Bell appreciates the community’s support and patience as this project continues to take shape. He is fully committed to the success of this endeavor, and will let nothing stand in the way of making The Southern Queen the cornerstone of the Shake Rag neighborhood that it once was.
Any media or historic preservation inquiries should be directed to [email protected]. Updates on the project will also be posted periodically on the hotel’s new page: facebook.com/southernqueenhotel
