Jacksonville’s hotel game changes with new additions

Tuesday, April 9, 2024

Global hospitality is set to be enhanced significantly as two new mid-scale branded hotels, the first in over a decade, have been announced to open or are nearing completion in the vicinity of Jacksonville International Airport. These establishments promise to not only enhance the lodging options for tourists but also stimulate the local tourism industry.

The 105-room Tru by Hilton Airport I-95, standing five stories tall, commenced operations on February 29, at 1265 Airport Road. In close proximity, the 102-unit TownePlace Suites by Marriott is poised to welcome guests from May 15, located at 1287 Airport Road. Positioned adjacent to each other at the intersection of northeast Airport and Ranch roads, just west of Interstate 95, these hotels signify a notable development in the area’s hospitality landscape.

Owned by Inn of Jax LLC, with Lake City Hotels Inc., based in Lake City, managing the properties, these new additions are a source of pride for Nick Patel, the chief operating officer of Lake City Hotels Inc. Situated approximately 2 miles from Jacksonville International Airport, the initiative to establish these hotels near the airport was conceived in 2018. Despite initial delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the projects were swiftly put into motion once it was clear that the pandemic would no longer pose a significant obstacle.

The purchase of the 4.03-acre site in July 2019 for $2.85 million from RSAS LLC and USA Express Inc. of Miami led to the demolition of a previously closed Wendy’s restaurant, making way for these developments. Patel highlighted the strategic decision to revitalize the northern side of Airport Road with these projects, anticipating it would trigger further growth and investment in the area. This is underscored by the fact that there are at least 16 hotels along Airport Road, indicating a vibrant hospitality sector.

The Tru by Hilton introduces a minimalist, contemporary brand, catering especially to millennials, with vibrant room and lobby colors, and essential amenities at an affordable price. The property emphasizes communal spaces and technology-friendly environments, aiming to extend the comfort of home into the hotel’s public areas. Similarly, the TownePlace Suites by Marriott is designed for longer stays, offering fully equipped kitchenettes for guests’ convenience.

Both properties do not include meeting rooms but are equipped with pools, grilling areas, markets, and complimentary breakfast buffets, and are pet-friendly, catering to a broad range of traveler needs. This development is anticipated not only to support the growing passenger travel at Jacksonville International Airport but also to contribute to the economic development and revitalization of Downtown Jacksonville and support the area’s commercial and medical growth.

With a combined offering of 207 rooms, these hotels are poised to make a significant impact on Jacksonville’s hospitality landscape, catering to a diverse array of travelers, from business to leisure guests, and supporting the city’s economic development through enhanced tourism and hospitality services.

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