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Artist's
rendering of the proposed Omaha
Convention Center Hilton Hotel |
Although
some past supporters of the alternative Marriott hotel say they
are somewhat reluctant to jump on the band wagon in support of
this agreement, a compromise was reached that will increase the
amount of rooms for the proposed hotel to 450. The original
proposal called for a $59.3 million 400-room Hilton hotel.
The 50 room increase now brings the estimated price tag to $66.3
million.
The Marriott proposal called for a $94.5 million 528-room hotel.
Two
key components of the compromise call for a commitment by Hilton
to block all 450 rooms for a major convention, plus make
available most rooms at the downtown Doubletree with free
shuttle service to the convention center (Hilton's other
downtown properties include the new Hilton Gardens and Embassy
Suites), plus they have committed to redesigning the hotel so
that the exterior is more compatible with the convention center.
Most members of the city council would still like to see the
design change from the eight-story concept to more of a
high-rise with at least 15 stories. Fahey and his financial
advisors, however, insist that going vertical runs up the cost
and puts taxpayers at greater risk to cover the shortfall.
A
team will meet in Omaha this Thursday, Sept 20th to discuss the
design changes. Locally, City Planning Director Bob Peters;
Chamber of Commerce President Lou Burgher; City
Councilman Jim Vokal; John Blazek
from (MECA)
the
Metropolitan
Entertainment and Convention Authority;
Jane Huerter from Mutual
of Omaha;
James Moser from
Omaha
Standard
and
a yet-to-be named local architect will work with the design
team.
It is estimated that $95 million in tax-free bonds will need to
be sold early next year to construct the facility which includes
a garage and skywalk. Pressure to reach a compromise came from a
ticking clock but at least the great hotel debate is
over.....for now!
