By Sandy James
Review Staff Writer
Published: April 17, 2008

The economy may not be growing, but two local hotels are.
Owners of the Holiday Inn Express on the north end, and the Red Carpet Inn on the south end of Orange, have plans to accommodate more visitors to Orange and surrounding areas.
The Holiday Inn Express has been in operation since July 2000.
Owner Carl Owens said plans for expansion are still in progress, but he hopes to begin construction on a 34 to 44-room addition by late summer or early fall this year.
Comptroller Bernadette Huff said the 65-room hotel stays very busy with families of Woodberry Forest School students and other visitors to the area. The hotel also serves numerous construction companies and local industry people.
The conference room, which seats 100, is filled frequently.
She said the view of the Blue Ridge mountains from the Holiday Inn Express is just one attraction that keeps customers coming back.
Wireless internet throughout the hotel is a perk for most guests.
She said, “The complimentary breakfast-especially the signature cinnamon bun-is a customer favorite.”
Huff is proud of the staff and credits them with the fact that the Holiday Inn Express has received numerous awards including newcomer of the year in 2000 and the Torchbearer every year since. These awards are all based upon guest response.
On the south end of town, there are plans for a new hotel next to the recently remodeled Red Carpet Inn.
Owner George Thacker plans to build a 50-room, three story hotel, similar to the Best Westrern building at Zion Crossroads. The old DeVivi Restaurant building of the current complex will be torn down.
New water lines have been installed, and new sewer and electric service will be the next steps before actual construction will begin. Thacker hopes to have the building open by Spring 2009.
Thacker said, “We want to make this building blend in more with the historical surroundings.” He said he has talked to members of the historical society about what type of building and décor would compliment the area.
The Red Carpet Inn, also owned by Thacker will remain in business. “People traveling for work need a place to stay,” he said.
Patty Rogers, manager of the Red Carpet Inn, said, “Business is great.” Rogers is proud of the recent improvements to the inn. “We have painted and put in new furniture,” she said. Rogers said wireless internet access will be available soon.
Thacker, with the construction of a new hotel, does not intend to compete with Holiday Inn Express, but to offer a mid-range priced hotel for travelers.