Sirocco Motel, Grotto’s Pizza demolition to begin this week
April 9, 2025
In accordance with city code, an exception was granted for demolition of the Sirocco Motel and Grotto’s Pizza to begin as early as Wednesday, April 9th. This follows an independent review of the Sirocco Motel building by Pilottown Engineering, which found hazardous structural deterioration and cracking in various areas, including the masonry at the garage support pillar. The hazardous conditions of this site have prompted the city to enact code Chapter 105, Section 4 which states demolition can occur during the thirty-day waiting period in emergency situations if deemed necessary by the Mayor and City Manager. Public safety, and the safety of surrounding properties, is what prompted city officials to make this decision.
Work will begin with the removal of the beach store located at the front of the Sirocco Motel. After, all dumpsters and site activities will be confined to the property. Demolition of Grotto’s boardwalk location will commence, and hand demolition will begin on the third floor of the Sirocco Motel. The site will be regraded and cleaned for the summer season, with fencing installed along the perimeter of the boardwalk and Baltimore Avenue.
No work is permitted to take place on April 12, 18, and 19. Impacts on Baltimore Avenue are likely to occur during demolition, while Rehoboth Avenue will not be affected, as no work will be completed on Rehoboth Avenue until Fall 2025. Pedestrian impacts will be limited; however, the northside of the Baltimore Avenue sidewalk leading to the boardwalk will remain closed.
The demolition of the Sirocco Motel, beach store, and Grotto’s Pizza is part of a larger project for the construction of the One Rehoboth Hotel. These demolitions will conclude prior to the start of the May 15th demolition moratorium.
