Md. lighthouse auction winner shares big plans for conservation and restoration – WTOP News

The 120-year-old Hooper Island Lighthouse, constructed in the midst of the Chesapeake Bay, has been round for much longer than Wealthy Cucé — however he stated the historical past drew him in: “A few 12 months in the past, I began changing into obsessive about shopping for a lighthouse.”

He gained an internet public sale held by the Normal Providers Administration in September 2022 and paid $192,000 for the dilapidated lighthouse — however nonetheless hasn’t had an opportunity to see it in particular person. “I knew slightly bit concerning the course of. I nonetheless am not fairly certain about what I’m stepping into, nevertheless it’s turning out to be fairly fascinating,” Cucé stated.

It’s an enormous enterprise, however for a seasoned actual property investor and proprietor of a Pennsylvania industrial portray firm, it’s a fantastic discover.

“We’re at all times searching for fascinating stuff to do. To discover a constructing that’s made out of steel … so all I’ve to do is blast and paint it … it simply gave the impression to be good for me,” he added, additionally noting the surroundings and alternatives to protect the pure surroundings. “It’s simply so vital to revive this construction and have or not it’s a spot the place individuals can meet and examine.”

Because the lighthouse is on the Nationwide Register of Historic Locations, it should be restored again to its authentic look, which is nice information for Cucé.

“I would like it to look authentic. It’s going to have the brownish crimson base and white within the heart, after which the black on the prime.”

His crew will even set up sustainable power sources, along with the solar energy already in use on the lighthouse.

Cucé signed an settlement with the U.S. Navy, who shall be conducting warfare testing within the space, which is able to put the lighthouse off-limits throughout sure occasions as a security precaution.

Different obstacles embody stepping into the lighthouse itself, which is eighteen ft above water. Guests might want to climb from a rocking boat to the ladder, all whereas coping with the typically intense present. “That scared lots of people away however I’m not afraid of it, so we’re gonna construct a dock,” Cucé stated, laying out his plan to make Hooper Island accessible.

He stated his plans embody one thing thrilling for anybody who could also be curious concerning the deserted lighthouse and its revitalization course of. It’s reworked right into a undertaking that has garnered assist from throughout the web.

“I get choked up, persons are messaging me about it. I by no means knew there was such a love for lighthouses. So many individuals wish to see the bay get restored,” he stated, laying out plans to deliver followers alongside for the journey via movies and social media.

Whereas Cucé stated he doesn’t intend to make a revenue off the undertaking, he does have plans for it — together with an oyster farm, underwater conservation initiatives and lighthouse-shaped wine and beer.

“I would like one thing extra significant in my life. I believe I actually hit on one thing. I really feel so good about what I’m doing on a regular basis.”