(LaBelle) A big change is coming to a little town in Southwest Florida. It's hoped improvements at a landmark hotel will breathe new life into LaBelle.

The Port LaBelle Inn on Oxbow Drive is getting a major face lift.

"It's very exciting for this small town and I am surprised at how many people have called or come out to visit because they're excited about it." Explains Port LaBelle Inn General Manager Anita Dall.

After numerous owners and years of neglect, the inn was purchased in the Fall of 2008 by an Ohio developer with an ambitious vision: renovate the property to attract business travelers, tourists, and boaters traveling across state via the Intra Coastal Waterway on the Caloosahatchee River.

"This is really the natural peaceful setting out in the middle of the true old fashioned Southwest Florida." Explains Dall. "It's a good midpoint for the state on a very busy road that's traveled quite a bit, with no place to stay along the way."

The property has undergone major changes.

New conference rooms will now welcome businesses and large parties.

The pool has been renovated and is now heated with solar panels. The tennis, basketball, and boccie courts have been refurbished, and a small fitness center is now open. All of the sports facilities are open to residents of LaBelle who are invited to use them for free.

The inn's 47 rooms and suites are being renovated. Many are getting completely new interiors and furniture, but the rates will remain under $100.

Olivia's, a brand new, modern restaurant and lounge opened for business at Port LaBelle Inn on June 1st. Right now only dinners are served, but there are plans for a Sunday brunch and a lunch menu. Entertainment is also planned for evenings and weekends.

The adjoining marina has also been remodeled. Docks are improved and offer power and water. There is also fuel and overnight dockage available.


The project is offering a boost to the local economy.

"So far we've hired 25 here, and are currently looking for more, especially with the restaurant and lounge." Explains Dall.

The changes are welcomed by many local business owners. Chip Dorn, who owns EZ Rental and Sales in LaBelle and who also lives next to the project, hopes the newly improved inn will boost his sales and property value.

"Any improvement over at the Port LaBelle Inn is good," Explains Dorn. "I think that if I talked to my neighbors it's going to be well received and it will be a plus for our area."

The adjoining Oxbow Golf Course is owned by several people, but it's hoped it will be restored and reopened in the future. However, there's no word on any definite plans.