Local hotel projects moving ahead

The building boom can be considered a sign of strength the economy is picking back up around the valley, especially in the hotel business where several major players are looking to make their mark.

In a statement, Michael Braun of Wessman Development, developers of the Kimpton project told us,

“We are very excited working with Kimpton Hotels and the City Council moving the revitalization of downtown Palm Springs forward… Once demolition is completed this summer, we will start construction.”

The question remains for all the hotels if they build it, will visitors come? Some say yes, some say no.

“I don’t really like the new idea for this situation because they are changing so much of the downtown area, but then again the building has sat vacant for so long it ought to be something,” said Charlie Wunderlich, a Palm Springs native.

John Raymond, Director of Community & Economic Development for the City of Palm Springs says there’s a little bit for everyone.

“There is going room there for local businesses, local restaurants, and things like that. It doesn’t really replace what you have on the street, it just becomes another kind of experience.”