News Talk 94.1/AM 1600 Where The Upper Cumberland Talks
Developer Marc Stengel preparing to begin demolition work on Gainesboro’s Old Shamrock Motel as the next step in the plan for a new boutique hotel.
Stengel said he closed on the property in December and he has a contractor and architect working on the design phase now. Stengel said demolition is set to begin on certain parts of the hotel this month and construction is expected to start in the third quarter of 2025.
“Course there will be employment opportunities once the hotel is up and running,” Stengel said. “And I, along with other folks that I’ve gotten to know fairly well in Jackson County and (the) Upper Cumberland, are very excited about the tourism possibilities.”
Stengel said he also expects his purchase of the building that contained the Bull and Thistle Pub to be finalized in the next thirty days. Stengel said he plans to activate some unused spaces in the building and get new storefronts into the town square in addition to a new restaurant.
“We’re awaiting final sign-off on the title and a final inventory of the contents of the Bull and Thistle,” Stengel said. “Which I am purchasing and making available to whomever might come in after.”
Stengel said he is not acquiring the goodwill or the trademark of The Bull and Thistle. Stengel said he is actively looking for a restaurant operator and has had several people express interest in using the space.
“We’re going to see what kinds of improvements and maybe reallocations of that space, interior before we then go out and seek new tenants,” Stengel said. “I do have two new tenants who will be moving in probably late this spring next door to the Bull and Thistle restaurant space.”
Stengel said the historic hotel is the second most important building in Gainesboro after the courthouse. Stengel said he hopes the construction process will spark good employment opportunities for locals in the Upper Cumberland as it is a shame to see the building essentially vacant and in disrepair.
“I just feel like the hotel will be a great addition,” Stengel said. “We’ve got Wildwood Marina down the road, we’ve got different boutique places to see in Livingston and Allardt and I just think Gainesboro needs to be in the mix.”
