Ground broken on Best Western hotel construction

BY JESSICA RICHARDSON
HERALD DEMOCRAT

DENISON — Best Western, the largest hotel/motel chain in the world, just got a little bigger.

Representatives of the lodging giant and Denison city officials joined together to turn dirt at the corner of U.S. Highway 75 and FM 120, in a lot next to the Braum's store, for a ceremonial ground breaking on Friday.

"We are flattered a brand like Best Western has chosen us," said Wes King on behalf of the Denison Chamber of Commerce to the hotel's owners, Vijay and Beena Patel.

The Patels have worked to secure a location in Denison for the past nine months. The couple is from the metroplex and has a proven track record having won several awards for their Best Western in McKinney.

By this time next year, the state-of-the-art facility planned for Denison will have already come to fruition. Its 77 rooms spread across three stories, an indoor pool, and nearly 40,000 square feet with additional amenities will have accommodated weary travelers and overnight guests.

Denison City Councilor David Spindle said that "without this quality of lodging," visitors might not stop in the city.

Marvin Smith, a member of the Denison Development Alliance, pointed out how stays at the hotel ultimately lead to spending at area shops and eateries. The result is an increase in the city's sales tax base.

The hotel will also contribute to the city hotel/motel and property taxes, and add an estimated 30 jobs to the city.