US: A Home2 Suites extended stay hotel will anchor a mixed-use development proposed for a lot across the street from Drake University’s Old Main.
Des Moines-based Nelson Development plans to construct the five-storey, 86,300 square-foot hotel between 26th and 27th streets along University Avenue. The building will also have lower-level retail and restaurant space.
The project is the first phase of a long-term redevelopment plan first initiated by Drake University in October 2016 when it announced plans to sell 2.7 acres of university-owned land to a private developer. Nelson Development plans to also build a 110-unit apartment building to the east of the hotel, and is considering adding row homes in a future phase, according to Alexander Grugrich, director of development and chief operating officer.
Design plans for the $28 million hotel will be considered at the city’s Urban Design Review Board on Tuesday morning. The property will open in May 2020 if given the go ahead.
“When we chose to work with Nelson on this project last year, it was in part because we knew the result would be a development that strengthened Drake’s ability to integrate more fully with our surrounding neighbourhood and engage with the community,” said Drake University president Marty Martin. “The addition of a Hilton Home2 Suites hotel flag and a restaurant across the street from Old Main will allow us to do exactly that. We look forward to welcoming our new neighbours and the vitality they will bring to our growing campus.”
