News Summary
The construction of a dual Marriott hotel in Shreveport is facing delays and concerns, as local officials and residents question its timeline and structural integrity. Initially abandoned renovation efforts have resumed, but issues related to mold, moisture, and unpaid taxes remain. City officials express dissatisfaction with progress, despite a financial commitment from D Shiri LLC. Community skepticism lingers as the potential impact on local economy and safety concerns are closely monitored.
Shreveport Faces Delays and Concerns Over Dual Marriott Hotel Construction
The construction of a dual Marriott hotel at 1419 East 70th Street in Shreveport, Louisiana, is currently beset by delays and concerns from local officials and residents. The project, which includes a Springhill Suites and TownePlace Suites, has raised questions about its timeline and structural integrity.
Originally the site of a Wyndham Hotel, this property was acquired by D Shiri LLC on April 1, 2020, for over $10 million. While initial renovation efforts commenced, they were abandoned by early 2024, igniting worries within the community regarding the project’s future. However, as of mid-2024, construction activity has reportedly resumed under the supervision of Larry Williams, the senior owner’s representative for D Shiri and the Galaxy Hotels Group.
City of Shreveport Chief Building Official Mike Sepulvado recently inspected the facility and identified issues related to potential mold and moisture build-up within the structure. Concerns about the property’s maintenance have been exacerbated by unpaid liens totaling $298,030.05 along with outstanding property taxes of $168,852 for 2024. Should these taxes remain unpaid, a tax sale could occur.
Project Specifications and Features
When completed, the dual Marriott facility will offer 216 units in total, consisting of 99 extended-stay rooms equipped with kitchens in TownePlace Suites and 117 upscale suites in SpringHill Suites featuring mini-fridges and microwaves. Additionally, a Boston Pizza Restaurant and Sports Bar is planned to be part of the hotel development, enhancing dining options for both guests and the surrounding community.
Concerns Over Progress
City officials, including District C councilman Jim Taliaferro, have expressed dissatisfaction with the slow progress on the construction site, noting a lack of visible activity. The hotel property has passed the electrical inspection but failed the rough-in inspection due to unresolved mold and mildew concerns that need to be addressed before further construction can proceed.
Financially, D Shiri LLC has secured a loan of $52,050,000 from GreenLake Real Estate Finance LLC. In February 2023, the mortgage amount was escalated to $92,710,000, indicating an increase in financial commitment to the project.
Local Skepticism and Future Outlook
Community representatives have shared sentiments of skepticism regarding the completion of the hotel due to previous delays and inactivity at the site. Despite these concerns, Larry Williams remains optimistic about achieving a late-2024 completion of the hotel, emphasizing the importance of adhering to inspection protocols and addressing city feedback.
Since the installation of Marriott signage in early May 2024, there have been minimal exterior changes, further heightening public scrutiny over the project’s advancement. Residents and city officials alike are closely monitoring the situation, hoping that upcoming inspections and resolutions to the existing issues will pave the way for the timely completion of the dual Marriott hotel.
With vital developments expected in the upcoming months, the potential reopening of this site could bring significant economic benefits, but lingering concerns must first be addressed to ensure the safety and satisfaction of the Shreveport community.
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Additional Resources
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Hotel Project Hits Snags
- Wikipedia: Hotel
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Hotel Under Construction
- Google Search: Shreveport hotel construction
- Shreveport Bossier Advocate: Why Hotel Hasn’t Opened
- Google Scholar: Hotel Construction Delays
- Hotel Dive: Casino Hotel News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Hotel Construction
- The Advocate: Courtyard by Marriott Opening
- Google News: Marriott hotel Shreveport
Author: STAFF HERE SHREVEPORT WRITER
The SHREVEPORT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREShreveport.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Shreveport, Caddo Parish, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Mudbug Madness Festival, Red River Revel Arts Festival, and Independence Bowl. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Shreveport-Bossier Chamber of Commerce and Shreveport Regional Arts Council, plus leading businesses in gaming, healthcare, and energy that power the local economy such as Horseshoe Casino, Ochsner LSU Health, and Atmos Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBatonRouge.com and HERENewOrleans.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Louisiana's dynamic landscape.
