unique colorado hotel project gets initial legislative support

A plan to build a teaching hotel on the campus of Colorado Mesa University in Grand Junction has moved a step closer to reality with a state legislative committee voting its approval of the project.

CMU officials say the facility would be used by students enrolled in the school’s hospitality management program, allowing for a hands-on learning environment in an actual functioning hotel.

As proposed, the boutique hotel would measure around 50,000 square feet, housing up to 90 rooms.

What is being called the Maverick Teaching Hotel would also include flexible and multi-functional public space, a restaurant, and rooftop bar, all built for LEED certification.

The project is expected to cost around $15.1 million to build and would be funded through several sources, including CMU’s unrestricted university cash reserves.

CMU officials have also pointed out that because the new facility would be built on the north side of the city where there are few hotels, it will fill a market need for rooms near the campus.

The project has now won the approval of the Colorado State Legislature’s Capital Development Committee.

By Garry Boulard