Tenants expected to move into Hotel Fresno this month

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- What was once old is now in the process of becoming new again.

Action News took a peek inside the historic Hotel Fresno on Wednesday.

The building has not been used in more than 40 years.

Fresno City Councilmember Miguel Arias said restoring the hotel has been five years in the making.

"The total project cost is about $41 million. The total out-of-pocket cost for the city of Fresno taxpayers is about $2 million," said Arias.

He explains this project has been a labor of love.

"It became a clear goal and a passion of mine to get that reopened but with the historical integrity that Fresno really deserves," said Arias.

Construction crews were seen putting the finishing touches on the retail spaces. Once people move in, the developer will choose what kind of retailers will move into spaces like this one.

Arias said it's been a process to update the 112-year-old building.

"These pillars here have been reinforced, have been redone to make it seismic proof for today's earthquake standards while maintaining all the original craftsmanship," said Arias.

The list of people hoping to move in was overwhelming, so much so that the developer had to use a lottery system to pick qualified tenants.

This, as well as permits waiting to be signed off, pushed back the move-in date.

But the first five people have been chosen to move into one of the 81 residential units.

One of those tenants waiting to move in will be Selena Lopez.

"I can't wait, I can't wait to actually walk in there," said Lopez.

The single mom of triplets has been without a permanent home for a few years. And they're ready for a new start.

"I'm excited to move into a place that's ours. That excites me. I just want to make sure my kids are secure," said Lopez.

Rent for the residential space will range from $500 to market value, depending on the size.

The grand opening is expected sometime in March. They are still accepting applications.

To apply, email HotelFresno@JordanManagement.com.

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