Hilton Upgrades 11 Hotels in Central U.S.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts announced that 11 of its Hilton brand hotels in the central United States are in the process of completing renovations, which combined are valued at more than $131 million.

These projects are part of an ongoing initiative by the Hilton brand to upgrade its facilities and guest accommodations in order to exceed guest expectations for style, convenience and comfort. The hotels are located in Illinois, Pennsylvania, Missouri, Kentucky and Ohio.

The following are a selection of the Hilton hotel renovation projects that are either under way or have just been completed in the last year in Illinois: The Palmer House Hilton, located in downtown Chicago, completed its comprehensive, two-year restoration program at the end of October 2008.

Of the overall multi-million dollar investment, $58 million was spent in 2008. The program spanned renovating the hotel’s guestrooms; retail, dining and bar offerings; ballrooms and meetings spaces; as well as the overall infrastructure, all while maintaining the hotel’s historic integrity.

The highlights completed in 2008 included the reinvigoration of the property’s 893 guest rooms, 54 suites and penthouse; the 10,000-square-foot expansion of the fitness center that now features state-of-the-art Hilton Fitness by Precor equipment.

Chicago/Oakbrook Terrace has embarked on an over $2 million renovation project, scheduled to be completed in 2009. This project will include a complete update of all of its guestrooms, as well as a pool upgrade.

In Pennsylvania, Hilton Pittsburgh is in the midst of a $30 million head to toe renovation. Guest rooms were completely demolished and rebuilt, and will feature new furniture, carpeting, wall coverings, flat-panel televisions, hard-wire and wireless Internet access, and the Hilton Serenity Collection Bedding Package.

In Missouri, Hilton St. Louis Airport is undergoing $9 million in property upgrades. Guests can now enjoy upgraded guest rooms, corridors, Gateway Ballroom, fitness center and business center.

In Kentucky, Seelbach Hilton Louisville is in the process of completing $11 million in upgrades. Guestrooms have received full makeovers, including the installation of flat-panel televisions.

In Ohio, Hilton Cleveland East/Beachwood expects to complete $8.1 million in refurbishments by October 2009. The hotel is enhancing its Internet and parking capabilities, as well as updating its public spaces and courtyard area.