by J. Brooks Terry
Staff Writer
Though originally planned for a late summer opening, owners of the Warehouse on Bay Street said Orchid nightclub won’t open until 2005.
Building owner Julia Suddath-Ranne confirmed the delay, citing problems in securing a $366,000 Historic Trust Fund Grant and other “last minute touch-ups.”
That grant did eventually come through, however no public dollars were directly earmarked for the Orchid project.
“Yes, we are behind schedule, but we have been working to improve the building for two years. It takes time,” said Suddath-Ranne. “However, we plan to make every effort and work tirelessly to be ready in time for the Super Bowl. The project is unfolding. It has not stopped and I have no doubt that it will happen.
“Build-out for the space is minimal and they will have the necessary permits soon.”
Previously planned renovations to the near century-old building, which included both external and internal overhauls, concluded earlier this year. Suddath-Ranne said minor electrical and plumbing upgrades were some of the improvements still needed in the approximately 10,000 square-foot space.
“There really isn’t a lot of work left,” she said. “There are a few upgrades that will have to be made and obviously bars will be installed. Aside from that, we are very lucky that very little else needed to be done.”
Suddath-Ranne also dispelled rumors that proprietors Daryl Strickland and Josh Duke were no longer affiliated with the project.“They are the managing members of Orchid, LLC. and are still very much involved,” she said. “There are other investors, but it is still their baby.”
The investors and their attorneys reportedly meet Monday evening to discuss the future of the project.