Construction is progressing smoothly on the $35-million TownePlace Suites by Marriott near the Victoria International Airport, with an anticipated opening in November.
The development, backed by Ontario-based Kothari Group, promises to be a boon for the growing tourism and business sectors in Greater Victoria and the Town of Sidney.
"Things are moving ahead nicely and everyone's been 100 per cent behind the project," said Anupam Kothari, president of Kothari Group.
He noted that cooperation with the Victoria Airport Authority, the city and BC Hydro has been seamless, contributing to the project's on-time trajectory.
The hotel, approved by VAA in April 2024 with a groundbreaking ceremony held in October, is being built by Citta, a local construction company based in Saanichton.
"This hotel is adding needed room inventory to the area and will support passengers using the airport from further up Island, allowing them to stay overnight before an early morning departure," Elizabeth Brown, VAA president and CEO, said. "The Kothari Group also had the foresight to understand the demand for people doing business in the region and an additional option for flight crews that overnight in Victoria."
Duncan Chiu, Marriott International senior director of lodging development for Western Canada, expressed confidence the new hotel will significantly support the growth and development in the region.
The three-storey hotel is already a visible landmark for residents crossing the Pat Bay Highway, featuring a combination of studio, one-bedroom and two-bedroom suites equipped with full kitchens.
In addition to comfortable accommodations, guests can expect a fitness centre, a swimming pool and 1,500 square feet of meeting space.
A 5,000-square-foot restaurant will also be a key feature.
While speculation has circulated online regarding the restaurant, with many suggesting it will be a Browns Socialhouse, Kothari remained tight-lipped.
"We are currently in discussion with several local brands for the family-style restaurant we're hoping to bring in," he stated.
Kothari confirmed that a sample room will be completed by June, offering a preview of the hotel's accommodations. TownePlace Suites will be soft-launching prior to its projected official opening.
"We plan to launch on Nov. 1 and we will begin hotel booking a few months in advance when dates become more clear," Kothari added.
The project is expected to create numerous jobs in the region and provide much-needed accommodation options for travellers and those visiting the area.
