Cotati Hotel Project by Developer Ken Molinaro Set to Break Ground

News Summary

The long-anticipated Cotati Hotel project, led by developer Ken Molinaro, is finally set to break ground after years of delays caused by financing, the COVID-19 pandemic, and rising costs. Located at 147 St. Joseph Way, this hotel will feature 153 rooms and various amenities, including a fitness center and a stage for live performances. As the only city in Sonoma County without a hotel, Cotati officials emphasize the importance of this project to support local tourism and community events, with a projected completion date of August 2024.

The Cotati Hotel Project Set to Break Ground After Years of Delays

The long-awaited Cotati Hotel project is finally poised to break ground, following a five-year journey marked by various challenges. Developer Ken Molinaro has faced hurdles since initiating the project in 2017, including financial setbacks, the widespread impact of COVID-19, and increasing construction costs.

Initially, the hotel construction was slated to begin earlier this year. However, the project hit a major snag when the original lender unexpectedly withdrew just a week before construction was set to commence. As a result, preliminary work on the 153-room hotel has been stalled for three months as Molinaro seeks new financing.

Preliminary Work Completed

Despite the delays, some foundational work has been accomplished. This includes the installation of underground utilities, completion of a fire suppression system, pouring of footings for the building, erecting rebar for the walls, and laying down plywood for the hotel structure. These steps indicate that progress has been made, setting the stage for the eventual construction phase.

Financing and Future Plans

Currently, Molinaro is in talks to secure financing from a new lender with the aim of finalizing arrangements by the end of the month. This renewed push for funding is crucial, as the Cotati Hotel aims not only to provide accommodation but also to serve as a vibrant hub for community engagement.

Features and Amenities

When completed, the Cotati Hotel will boast a variety of features, including:

• A restaurant
• A lounge bar
• A marketplace
• A stage for live performances

The hotel will be situated on 2 acres of land at 147 St. Joseph Way, previously designated as a park-and-ride location off Highway 101. With the closest hotels located in surrounding cities, Cotati currently remains the only city in Sonoma County without its own hotel. This project is seen as a community priority, especially by local officials.

Supporting Local Businesses and Community Engagement

City manager Damien O’Bid emphasizes the project’s importance in boosting local lodging options for visitors. The hotel and its adjacent plaza area are intended to support local businesses by providing a space for community events and engagement.

The hotel design features 153 rooms, including five suites, complemented by amenities such as a fitness center and outdoor seating. Among the most appealing features will be a marketplace with approximately 6,000 square feet designated to food venues, all aimed at enriching Cotati’s dining and entertainment scene.

Historical Context and Community Support

The hotel project was originally intended to operate as a Reverb by Hard Rock hotel, but that plan was set aside, allowing for an independent hotel to take shape. Molinaro, who comes with over 30 years of experience in real estate development, is committed to crafting a venue that offers potential for local band performances, thereby enhancing Cotati’s musical culture.

Community outreach has overwhelmingly supported the hotel, as local residents hope it will elevate tourism and the town’s profile. Cotati is known for its annual music festivals, including the Cotati Music Festival and the Cotati Accordion Festival, making the timing of the hotel’s establishment particularly significant.

Industry Challenges and Future Outlook

While the Cotati Hotel appears to be on track, broader challenges within the hotel development sector in California could still impact progress. Industry experts note that rising construction costs and fluctuating economic conditions present ongoing concerns for new projects.

Nevertheless, the Cotati Hotel project stands on the brink of officially breaking ground, with construction expected to complete by August 2024. As the community anticipates this welcome addition, the dream of Cotati having its own hotel is finally within reach.

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Additional Resources

• North Bay Business Journal: Cotati Hotel Project
• Wikipedia: Cotati, California
• Press Democrat: Cotati Hotel Construction
• Google Search: Cotati Hotel Project
• North Bay Business Journal: Atlas Hospitality Group
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hotel
• Petaluma360: Petaluma City Revenues
• Google News: Cotati Hotel