Casper, WY – The Riverside Hotel & Conference Center, along with the Whiskey Butter restaurant and cocktail bar at 300 West F Street, has been ordered to close temporarily by the Natrona County Health Department. The cease‑and‑desist order, issued on Oct. 30, 2026, cites a potential risk of airborne asbestos fibers after investigators found that asbestos‑containing materials may have been disturbed or improperly handled.
Health department’s rationale
According to the written order, “Based upon information received and/or conditions identified during investigation, there is reason to believe that asbestos‑containing materials may have been disturbed, damaged, or improperly handled, creating a potential risk of airborne asbestos fibers.” The order requires the hotel, restaurant, and pool to remain closed until the department is satisfied that investigation, removal, and containment measures have been completed.
Impact on guests and staff
The hotel’s website currently blocks new reservations, and a recorded message on the hotel’s phone line confirms the temporary shutdown. A guard on duty in the parking lot told an Oil City News reporter that the owners plan to reopen soon, but could not provide a timeline. No vehicles, staff, or occupants were observed on the property at the time of reporting.
History of the Riverside property
Built in the 1960s as a Holiday Inn, the complex later expanded to include indoor rooms, a pool, and convention space. It was rebranded as a Ramada Inn about a decade ago, then became an Econo Lodge before being abandoned in 2023. The abandoned property suffered vandalism and squatters before the city condemned it. In 2024, the current owners formed The Riverside Hotel, LLC, listed with a business address in Sheridan, and affiliated the property with the Wyndham Hotels chain.
Next steps for reopening
The health department’s order does not specify which areas of the building are affected, only that asbestos‑related conditions must be addressed. The department will conduct follow‑up inspections to verify that proper abatement procedures are in place before lifting the closure.
Community response
Local residents and business owners expressed concern about the potential health risk and the economic impact of the closure on downtown Casper. The Natrona County Health Department encourages anyone with information about the site’s condition to contact the department directly.
Contact information
Oil City News has reached out to both hotel management and the Natrona County Health Department for comment and will update this story as new information becomes available.
Original reporting: Oil City News (Casper WY) — read the source article.
