Harrison Square Hotel Update
Posted by Jeff Pruitt - 11/23/08 @ 8:30 pm - Filed Under Featured, Local Politics
Last week Around Fort Wayne reported that the hotel’s general contractor had been to the building department to discuss the project but had not officially obtained the building permit. A source close to the situation has now informed me that a representative from White Lodging will officially obtain their building permit next week.
Whether or not this means they have obtained a construction loan to break ground is unknown at this time; I suppose they could just be trying to allay public concern over the project’s lack of progress. Another interesting note mentioned by my source is that nobody really knows what’s going on except the city’s project consultant Steve Brody. I was told he’s the only interface between the city and White Lodging.
Clearly Brody’s been telling anyone that would listen that “all is well” but it seems odd that the city would put this kind of responsibility in the hands of one individual no matter how capable he might be. Brody claims that White Lodging is still 100% committed to the project despite the slowing economy and slow condo sales. Right now everybody seems relatively comfortable with his reports but insiders are saying that if progress isn’t made by the first of the year then it will be time to worry…
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5 Responses to “Harrison Square Hotel Update”
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Hi Jeff,
I do not know the specifics, but once the permits are picked up, they are considered activated and construction has to begin soon after or they expire. Again, I can’t remember the specifics when I was involved with a project a couple of years ago, but it is limited. Hopefully they received a positive indication from the bank they were going to and this can finally get started.
Stephen
I think Steve is correct. Picking up permits does not impress me. I have seen home builders pick up permits and never build the house.
The proof in the pudding is when they step forward and prove financiing for both the building and operation is completed.
As for Steve Brody… Well he may be the fall guy that is gone when it falls apart. Everyone will run around saying they had no idea how bad things where and more hot air. The general public will buy into it and life will go on….
I guess this falls under, “DON’T ASK QUESTIONS BECAUSE YOU MIGHT HEAR THE TRUTH!”
Here’s a question: What kind of bank would want to finance a new hotel in a city where the existing hotel market is already flooded?
Answer: One that is being subsidized by the Federal Government as a reward for their ineptness.
Phil: BINGO!