The Andrea Hotel in the days following Hurricane Sandy. Photo by Steve Klamkin WPRO News

By Steve Klamkin WPRO News

The Hotel Andrea, damaged beyond repair by Superstorm Sandy, is being demolished, as its owners vow to rebuild.

Demolition of the seaside landmark at Misquamicut Beach began Tuesday, according to the Providence Journal, and was continuing on Wednesday.  The Colucci family, which has owned the hotel since 1946 announced plans in December to rebuild. One portion is to reopen by Memorial Day, 2013, and a new facility is planned to open by the summer of 2014.

The Andrea Hotel and numerous other seaside hotels, bars and restaurants were inundated by the hurricane's storm surge, and Atlantic Avenue was buried in some locations under three to four feet of sand that was washed ashore. 

The Greater Westerly-Pawcatuck Area Chamber of Commerce has been raising private funds to augment relief money to help businesses rebuild, and many vow to do by Memorial Day, in time for the summer season. The Chamber is planning a major event on February 23 to help its "Bring Back the Beach" fundraising effort.