The transformation of Frying Pan Shoals Light Tower to a bed and breakfast is a work in progress, but it’s also a labor of love.
The fact that few paying guests stayed there its first season is not a big deal to owner Richard Neal, who says he’s keeping his focus on restoring the weathered former Coast Guard installation.
Neal, whose successful bid of $85,000 to the federal government two years ago secured the tower about 25 miles southeast of Southport, is grateful for the volunteer work that has enabled partial restoration. Neal is considering reaching out to KickStarter.com for assistance through the Offshore Light Station Foundation
Long neglected, the tower is now receiving national attention. There was a mention in May in Time magazine’s travel section in an article about unique bed-and-breakfast destinations. The tower has received a lot of publicity in other media as well, and Neal is confident it will become a popular destination for paying guests once it is refurbished
Before Neal purchased the lighthouse, an engineering inspection found it structurally sound but in need of a paint job and rust and corrosion removal. The work was estimated to cost $1.37 million.
Neal believes that with the assistance of volunteers, donations and possibly nonprofit organizations, it can be completed at about one-quarter of that estimate.
The tower is actually a modified oil drilling platform design anchored to the ocean floor by four massive steel legs. It rests in about 50 feet of water. The two-story tower includes a 5,000-square-foot living space with a kitchen, office, storage space, bathrooms and recreation area.
In 2011, volunteers helped restore electricity for all lighting, refrigeration and other general needs. This year has also been a productive one, Neal said, noting progress on interior repairs and painting, assessing the corner tower’s glass and structural needs and finding a set of stairs to restore water-level access.
The tower may be a little ways off from a 5 star B&B, but as far as a unique travel destination is concerned, he’s got it made.
One of his volunteers who helped with repairs over the summer describes the true magic of the place, stating that it was an opportunity of a lifetime. He got to see shooting stars in the clear night sky from the flight deck, he got to watch schools of sharks swim by nearly everyday, sea turtles in their natural environment and some unforgettable sunrises and sunsets.
Hopefully, the funding and repairs will make headway and soon everyone will be able to enjoy the remarkable beauty of the light tower.