by Margo Christensen, Vice President, Marketing & Public Relations, Ponderosa Hotel Management Services
The lower-than-expected spring occupancies because of COVID-19 allowed the two Prescott Marriott hotels to move quickly through construction and renovation projects that otherwise would have been challenging with higher occupancies.
SpringHill Suites in downtown Prescott underwent its 21-year remodel, which started in January. This is the most extensive remodel since opening in 1998 and will be complete in June. Nearly every surface was updated in all public spaces and every guest room.
Guest rooms are brand new, including beautifully designed furniture, art and new bathroom fixtures. Lobby and business center renovations were extensive with all new furniture, art, cabinetry and flooring. The pool and patio areas have new patio furniture, and the meeting space has new furniture, wall vinyl and carpet. Exterior enhancements include landscaping, painting and slight modifications to the entrance.
Residence Inn by Marriott, just off Highway 69 near Trader Joe’s, installed two dual-port electric vehicle charging stations as part of a grant from Arizona Public Service. The program, called Take Charge Arizona, offers the ability to install EV charging stations at a commercial location at no cost to the business. The only requirement is that the business cannot charge a fee for the use of the stations.
I applied for the grant last fall, thinking it was too good to be true. After a series of in-person and phone meetings we were notified in early January that we qualified for the grant. Construction began in late April and the stations opened in mid-May. Charging is available around the clock and is free for anyone, guest or nonguest. “I’m really excited to showcase our hotels this summer,” says Holli Stack, vice president of regional sales. “The SpringHill Suites will be showing off their tremendous renovation and the Residence Inn has another green initiative so travelers can plug into Prescott’s newest EV station.”
The Prescott Marriott hotels are in 100% compliance with strict protocols required by Marriott International for the health and safety of all our guests, team members and residents of our community.