Hammons taps into Fort Smith’s downtown revitalization

The property is owned by John Q. Hammons and managed by Springfield-based Hammons Hotels.

The hotel, 900 Rogers Ave., is situated one block from the Fort Smith Convention Center, the Riverfront Development and Garrison Avenue, all of which recently underwent renovations totaling $55 million.

“Fort Smith’s wonderful downtown community and revitalization make this an opportune time to debut a quality, full-service hotel,” Hammons said in a news release. “We’re confident the hotel will help attract more association and religious-circuit group business to the Fort Smith, northwest Arkansas and Little Rock area.”

The hotel’s general manager, Bert Haifley, comes to Fort Smith from the Residence Inn in Joplin. He has been with Hammons Hotels for 12 years.

The four-story hotel features the Courtyard Café, an exercise room, an indoor pool and a full-service business center.

Hammons Hotels interior designer Julia Russell created the hotel’s design using curved furniture, bright colors and modern décor. Lohmeyer-Russell of Springfield was architect of the project; Flintco Construction, general manager, also worked on the hotel.

Formal grand opening ceremonies are planned for February.

Hammons has several hotels in design or under construction, including facilities in East Peoria, Ill.; Omaha, Neb.; Loveland, Colo.; San Marcos, Texas; Murfreesboro, Tenn.; and Mooresville, N.C.