Milledgeville developers are eager to expand the city community and start on the city-approved Hilton Hotel project on North Elbert Street.
An assembly of architects, lawyers and hotel consultants were selected to fund plans for the project that continues to circulate with investors.
Real estate developer Mike Couch mentioned that he started planning the hotel with his real estate team in February. The Milledgeville community had expressed interest and the idea drove forward.
Plans call for 100 to 125 rooms, a restaurant, rooftop bar and conference facilities.
“I think the Hilton Hotel is an amazing idea,” said Eva Jeswald, a sophomore exercise science major. “Now, GCSU and GMC families will be able to visit their students easier. It will truly bring the community together.”
Businesses in downtown Milledgeville are excited for the addition as well and are preparing for the economic impact.
“I work at the Brick as a hostess and our restaurant gets very full, specifically on weekends or for big events at GCSU and in the city,” said Caitlyn Hess, a junior psychology major. “I think the hotel will be great for student families looking for lodging in Milledgeville. More customers will also allow our restaurant to gain more attention.”
The Hilton Hotel conveniently will be five minutes away from GCSU and GMC campuses, providing families closer approximicity to students. Lake Sinclair, another entertainment spot for residents and visitors, is only ten minutes away.
“I love to visit Lake Sinclair whenever I have the time,” said Lauren Bledsoe, a junior nursing major. “It makes me happy that when my family or hometown friends visit, they have a place to stay and can join in my plans.”
GCSU students mention that Milledgeville needed a hotel development for visitation.
“I don’t have a car in Milledgeville, so I don’t get to see my parents that often,” said Caroline Williams, a senior political science major. “The hotel will be great for when my parents want to visit me.”
Greek life events are large scale events where families are often invited to support their students.
“I am in Delta Gamma, and my parents are coming to DG Family Day on Oct. 18,” said Sarah Crowder, a junior criminal justice major. “I am also performing in our fall fundraiser Anchor Jam. The Hilton Hotel will be great for events like these when my parents would like to come down for a weekend.”
GCSU students also mention the Hilton Hotel will be a great addition to a livelier downtown scene.
“The Hilton Hotel will transform downtown Milledgeville and bring more life to restaurants, shops and campuses,” said Arianell Viall, a senior economics major. “The rooftop bar and restaurant will also increase consumer engagement.”
Milledgeville residents and students agree that the Hilton hotel is necessary in the city and inquire about lodging options close to campus or downtown.
“The Hilton hotel is Milledgeville’s missing piece,” said Chloe Melton, a junior creative writing and English major. “I work at Blackbird Coffee and I overhear many conversations about the city needing more lodging options from residents and students.”
The Milledgeville city council has since approved the hotel proposal for downtown Milledgeville due to the community’s demand. If financing is obtained, the developers hope to break ground early next summer.