Exciting New Hotel Development on the Horizon for Columbia!
Columbia, SC — Big news is buzzing around the Columbia Metropolitan Airport as the airport looks to partner with developers to build a hotel right on their property! This initiative aims to create a convenient spot for travelers, making their journeys smoother and much more enjoyable.
What’s Happening?
On October 15, 2024, it was announced that the airport has officially selected Alia Bostaji from Colliers South Carolina to help market and list a two-acre piece of land for the hotel project. The airport is offering the land as a ground lease and is searching for a developer to take on the exciting project of constructing and managing the new hotel.
The Hotel Plan
The proposed hotel is envisioned to be a four-story establishment featuring around 150 rooms. Sounds cozy, right? “This hotel will significantly ease the travel experience, particularly for those with early-morning or late-night flights,” expressed Mike Gula, the president and CEO of CAE.
Gula highlights that having a hotel so close means that travelers can simply arrive the night before their departure, relish a comfortable stay, and then conveniently walk straight from the hotel to the terminal. It’s almost like having a home away from home right at the airport!
A Prime Location
The hotel is set to be located at a prime spot in West Columbia, precisely at the corner of Airport Boulevard and Aviation Way. This fantastic location boasts direct access to the airport facilities, surface parking, and a breezeway for easy navigation. Plus, guests will enjoy easy access to major roads, including Platt Springs Road and Airport Boulevard.
Enhancing Traveler Experience
As travel begins to pick back up with increasing passenger numbers, the airport recognizes the need for high-quality accommodations nearby. Alia Bostaji points out that the primary aim of this hotel project is to enhance overall experience and services for the increasing number of travelers at CAE. It’s not just about the hotel; it’s a key piece of their broader land development plans.
A Developer’s Dream
Colliers is on the lookout for a hospitality developer who can bring some fantastic amenities to the table, including a fitness center, meeting rooms, and even a rooftop bar and restaurant! Can you imagine sipping a drink while enjoying stunning views of the airfield? That would definitely make layovers more interesting!
The Bigger Picture
Interestingly, this hotel project comes at a time when the airport is already experiencing a surge in passenger traffic. In fact, just this past May, the airport saw traffic numbers soar beyond what was recorded in 2019, setting new records! The demand for various services has never been higher, and the addition of a hotel is expected to cater perfectly to this growth.
With plans already in motion for the hotel, the airport has also been hard at work on an extensive multi-year master plan, which includes expanding existing facilities to better serve increasing passenger traffic.
Community Impact
The city of Columbia is buzzing with optimism about this project. Not only will it improve the overall travel experience, but it will also create new job opportunities and contribute positively to the local economy. Plus, with a hotel right on airport property, visitors will appreciate the convenience, making Columbia an even more attractive spot for travelers.
As we eagerly await further developments on this exciting hotel project, one thing is certain: Columbia’s travel landscape is about to get a remarkable upgrade! Stay tuned for more updates as the airport continues to evolve and meet the needs of its passengers.
