The Calgary Municipal Land Corporation says that they have inked a deal with Widewaters Group to build a new 315 room Hilton Hotel in the East Village.
The project, with an estimated value of $75M, will be built at the corner of 7 Ave. and 4 St. S.E.
According to a release, the 14 storey, full service hotel will combine the brands of Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Inn and Suites under one roof.
The project contains a south facing rooftop terrace with pool and fitness facilities, together with library and convention services and two levels of underground parking.
"We're pleased to welcome Widewaters Group to the team of developer partners who are transforming East Village into a complete inner-city neighbourhood," said Michael Brown, President and CEO, CMLC. "This project is a great compliment to the multi-family projects currently underway in East Village. Now visitors and travellers coming into Calgary, will have the ability to stay in the district to take advantage of the many cultural, entertainment and recreational amenities being built here."
Ed Shagen, the director of development for Widewaters Group, says that they chose Calgary because it's one of North America's strongest economies.
"We view Calgary as a young, dynamic city and believe there is room in the downtown hospitality market for both our select service and extended stay products, which will serve the growing needs of the market's business and leisure traveler. We chose to invest in East Village because we could see its' potential as both a tourist destination and a new commercial core for Calgary; we're thrilled to be part of the team."
Tuesday's announcement comes after the city said they will be redeveloping nearby St. Patrick's Island as part of the East Village Area Redevelopment Plan.
St. Patrick's Island will receive a major makeover and construction will begin next year on the new pedestrian bridge that will span the Bow River from Bridgeland to the East Village.
The project was originally approved by council in 2005 and the plan was revised in 2010 and approved with a total budget of $45 Million.
The city says St. Patrick's Island will provide recreational space for the neighbouring communities and be a key entry way for the RiverWalk.
The $45 Million price tag includes the revitalization of the island, the construction of a pedestrian/cycle bridge and beautification of the connecting pathways and landscaping.
