Pulse Nightclub Set for Demolition, Memorial Plans Advance
ORLANDO, Fla. – The City of Orlando will begin demolishing the Pulse nightclub in mid-March, nearly a decade after the tragic mass shooting that claimed 49 lives and injured 53 others. The demolition will pave the way for a permanent memorial honoring the victims of the June 12, 2016, attack.
The shooting, which targeted primarily LGBTQ+ and Latine individuals, was at the time the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. History. The site has remained a poignant reminder of the tragedy and the decision to move forward with demolition marks a significant step towards creating a lasting tribute.
City officials announced that the Pulse sign will be removed “on or near” March 10 and will be “securely stored” following its removal, according to reports. A fence has already been constructed around the property, and artifacts from the site have been carefully removed and placed in an “environmentally controlled warehouse.”
The development of the memorial has undergone a transition in recent years. Originally spearheaded by the non-profit onePULSE Foundation, the city of Orlando assumed control of the project after the organization dissolved in 2023. The city council purchased both the Pulse building and the adjacent property to facilitate memorial planning.
On March 5, city officials will host a meeting, both online and in person, to present updated designs for the permanent memorial. The presentation will include new renderings reflecting the work of the Pulse Memorial Advisory Committee. According to a statement, the design team will share details advancing the memorial’s development.
The construction of the multimillion-dollar memorial is being funded through a combination of donations from the city, Orange County, the state of Florida, and private donors. The memorial is currently expected to be completed in 2027.
The demolition is scheduled to begin on March 18, according to reports. Families and survivors have waited nine years for a permanent memorial to honor their loved ones and remember the devastating events of that night. This move signifies a commitment to creating a space for remembrance, healing, and reflection.
