Heron Hotels hosted a public open house of sorts in April to share plans for a boutique hotel in downtown Blue Ridge.
Those plans will go before the Blue Ridge Planning Commission Tuesday, August 4 at 6 p.m. as they attempt to rezone the proposed location from M-1 (Manufacturing District) to CBD (Central Business District).
The property in questions lies at 260 East Main St., which Heron Hotels had under contract at the time of the open house.
Prior to the April open house, the property owners, BR 01035, LLC, filed an Anti Litem notice against the City of Blue Ridge claiming $1.5 million in damages as a result of “the stormwater work, recently undertaken by the City of Blue Ridge, has made the runoff worse, not better. Further, the work has resulted in water, debris and other materials being placed on the property.”
As for the hotel itself, Rich Chism of Heron Hotels said it will consist of 160 rooms and a phase two portion to address "workforce housing."
He said the hotel will also include a 5,000 square foot event space and ample parking places. The hotel would require an 8-feet height variance, Chism told those in attendance for the open house in April.
The City of Blue Ridge approved an 84-room hotel at the corner of Mountain Street and East Main in June.
Anyone in opposition or support of the proposed development is encouraged to attend the public hearings.
The Blue Ridge City Council will have final approval on the project despite the Planning Commission's recommendation. That hearing will take place Tuesday, August 18 at 6 p.m. All meetings take place at City Hall located at 480 West First St.
Any questions should be directed to the City of Blue Ridge Planning & Zoning Department by calling 706-632-2091.