Matteson hotel shut down due to code violations

Summary

In a critical update, the Travelodge Hotel in Madison faces urgent safety violations that could force it to close, affecting approximately 30 guests. The hotel management is racing against time to address issues like non-functional fire alarms and an uninspected sprinkler system, aiming to meet a 5 PM deadline set by village authorities. The fire chief revealed that a guest initially alerted officials to the problems, prompting multiple inspections. While repairs are underway, nearby hotels are prepared to accommodate displaced guests if necessary, highlighting the ongoing struggle between safety compliance and the impact on vulnerable individuals.

Takeaways

• 🏨 The Travelodge Hotel in Madison has been facing ongoing safety violations since February of last year.
• ⏰ The hotel must complete necessary repairs by 5 PM today to remain open for its guests.
• 👥 Currently, about 30 guests are staying at the hotel, many of whom may have difficulty finding alternative accommodations.
• 🚨 The fire department was alerted to the hotel's safety issues by a concerned guest.
• 🔧 Previous inspections revealed multiple code violations, including non-functional fire alarms on upper floors.
• 🔍 The hotel management has struggled to address safety repairs, largely due to the impacts of COVID-19.
• 💡 Repairs being made include fixing fire alarms and the fire pit control center for the alarm system.
• 📅 Another inspection is scheduled to ensure all repairs are completed satisfactorily.
• 🔄 The Madison Police are assisting by informing guests about potential relocation options if the hotel must close.
• ✔️ The hotel management is working diligently to rectify all identified safety deficiencies before the deadline.

Q & A

What is the main issue facing the Travelodge Hotel?

The hotel is dealing with safety violations and required repairs to remain open.

How many guests are currently staying at the hotel?

Approximately 30 guests are staying at the hotel.

What deadline has been set for completing the necessary repairs?

The repairs must be completed by 5 o'clock today.

What challenges has the hotel management faced in making repairs?

The management has cited COVID-19 as a factor that made repairs difficult.

What were some of the specific safety violations found during inspections?

Issues included non-working fire alarms on the second and third floors and problems with the fire pit and sprinkler system.

Who alerted the fire department to the issues at the hotel?

A guest at the hotel first alerted the fire department to the problems.

What actions have the Madison police taken in relation to the hotel?

The police went door-to-door to inform guests and negotiated with nearby hotels for alternative accommodations.

What progress has been made regarding the fire alarms?

The fire alarms were reportedly working during a recent inspection.

What did the hotel manager say about the repairs?

The manager stated they are working as quickly as possible to complete the necessary repairs.

What will happen if the repairs are not completed by the deadline?

If the repairs are not completed and inspected by the deadline, the hotel may be shut down.