A 62-unit hotel with a waterslide and pool could be welcoming visitors to Sylvan Lake early next summer.
The town has issued a development permit for the three-storey building that’s planned for Beju Industrial Park. Preliminary work is already underway, said Tim Sikma, who is a member of the group of local and regional investors who are behind the project.
“We hope to be open by July 1, but that depends on how hard of a winter we have.”
The hotel is expected to operate under the brand of a “major franchise,” said Sikma, adding he can’t yet disclose which one.
Some of the units will be suites, and there will be Jacuzzis in some rooms. Other amenities will include meeting rooms and a hot tub, with guest also receiving a continental breakfast.
Sikma, who lives in the community, said there’s a need for mid-range accommodation away from the lake front.
“We believe there’s a really big demand,” he said. “We know a lot of people are staying in Red Deer overnight and then doing stuff in Sylvan Lake.”
In addition to tourists and other visitors to Sylvan Lake, Sikma expects people like oilfield workers who are living temporarily in the area to use the hotel.
He also thinks the building’s location near a commercial growth area, and within view of Hwy 20, will generate business.
hrichards@www.reddeeradvocate.com