US: An official ground breaking ceremony was held this week for a Candlewood Suites extended stay hotel in Fort Gordon.
The site is located on 3rd Avenue and Avenue of the States, in front of the Main Post Exchange. The project is being established by developer Lendlease and Intercontinental Hotels Group through the Privatization of Army Lodging program. The program allows for a partnership between the Army and private industry “to improve the condition of on-post lodging facilities for their long-term sustainment”.
Lacey Jamison, marketing coordinator at Lendlease, said construction is expected to be complete by winter 2020.
“This extended stay brand will be used to support soldiers travelling for a short period of time,” she said. “We feel this adequately supports military families and soldiers travelling to the installation for a short period. It’s different because it’s going to be completely new.”
The hotel will feature 311 rooms, a mix of one- and two-bedroom suites and studios, with special quarters on the fifth floor. Features will include a swimming pool, a business and fitness centre, and fully-equipped kitchens and large work areas in each guest room.
Keith Scruggs, senior development manager with Lendlease, said the company is investing $50 million into the project.
“This will be one of the largest hotels on a military installation,” he said. “We’re excited about the offering and selection of the hotel.”</p
