Springfield, Mo. – The City of Springfield announced it will acquire the Hotel of Terror property for $2 million, a move that will allow the municipality to advance the Renew Jordan Creek flood‑control project, which includes replacing a century‑old bridge.
Sale details and family history
Owner Sterling Mathis, who operated the attraction for nearly five decades, agreed to the sale after lengthy negotiations that date back to the 1990s. Mathis’s sons, Jordan and Parker, said their father had been in talks with city officials for years before finally accepting the offer.
“It was either take it or take a big loss,” Parker Mathis explained, referencing the city’s eminent‑domain authority. Jordan Mathis added that the city would have restarted the process if the family had prevailed in a legal challenge.
Impact on the community
The Hotel of Terror has been a seasonal staple for Springfield families, drawing crowds each Halloween. Long‑time visitor Amber Vogel of Nixa recalled attending the attraction since childhood, calling its closure “very sad” for the community.
Local resident Rosemary Forester, a first‑time visitor, noted the attraction’s role in the city’s holiday economy, saying, “It’s like their job every year, and now it’s ending, so they’ll have to figure out something else.”
Future of nearby attractions
While the Hotel of Terror will close after its final two nights—Friday, Oct. 30, and Saturday, Oct. 31—the Mathis brothers emphasized that the adjacent Dungeons of Doom will remain open. “The good side is that Dungeons of Doom is staying right where it’s at, so we’re not done scaring people,” one brother said.
City’s rationale
City officials said the acquisition is essential for the Renew Jordan Creek flood‑control initiative, which aims to replace a 100‑year‑old bridge that has become a safety concern. The project is part of a broader effort to protect Springfield’s neighborhoods from recurring flood damage.
Mayor‑appointed city manager highlighted that securing the property prevents future legal disputes and ensures the project can move forward without delay. “Acquiring this land now allows us to focus on the critical infrastructure improvements that keep our families safe,” the manager said.
Operational details
The Hotel of Terror will be open for its final two nights: Friday, Oct. 30, from 6:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m., and Saturday, Oct. 31, from 6:30 p.m. to 1 a.m. After that, the site will be cleared for construction.
Residents who wish to experience the attraction one last time are encouraged to attend the scheduled hours. The city will provide updates on the flood‑control project timeline as work begins.
Community response
Local reactions have been mixed. While many mourn the loss of a beloved Halloween tradition, others recognize the long‑term benefits of improved flood protection. The city plans to hold a public information session next month to address questions and outline the next steps for the Jordan Creek bridge replacement.
For further information, contact the Springfield City Hall public affairs office.
Original reporting: KY3 Springfield (local) — read the source article.
