French Lick Resort Discusses Reopening Plans as County Reports 25% Unemployment in April

BY: DAVID SHEPHERD, NEWS DIRECTOR

FRENCH LICK --  One of Orange County's bigger employers, the French Lick Resort and Casino, remains closed to most guests due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but, company officials have begun implementing a "multi-layered approach" to reopening.  

The resort closed back in mid-March and cancelled all events and activities.  

In a statement released last week, officials said, "The first step in our multi-layered approach began on May 15, with a limited amount of overnight golf guests. Beginning today, West Baden Springs Hotel is open for leisure guests over the Memorial Day weekend."  The statement continued, " Beginning June 1, we are opening the West Baden Spring Hotel for continuous operation. Again, it will be at a reduced capacity for some time.  The resort continues to take reservations for stays beginning July 1st for all guest segments at French Lick Springs Hotel and Valley Tower.”

Cook Group Vice President Chuck Franz says the company will be taking measures to ensure guests' safety when the resort does reopen.  " Shortly after the resort shutdown in Mid-March, teams set out to develop a health and safety master plan," Franz said in the written statement. "Stringent cleaning protocols were developed; new safeguards like temperature checks and facial masks were implemented and spaces were reconfigured to allow safe social distancing."


He continues, "We understand that travel is a personal choice and after choosing to stay home for a few months, you likely have safety concerns about your next travel destination. I want to let you know that we are here to listen. Please reach out to us with any questions or concerns you may have. Also, as we continuously refine our master plan, we would love to hear any suggestions you may have.  Lastly, we also wanted to remind you that we have relaxed our penalties for cancellations. You have the flexibility to make adjustments right up to your arrival."