New Bern's Holiday Inn Express: A Long-Awaited Arrival!
The wait is finally over for the residents of New Bern, North Carolina, as the brand-new Holiday Inn Express & Suites opens its doors after a staggering seven-year delay! But was it worth the wait? Many locals seem to think so.
A Troubled Construction Journey
The $6 million project, boasting 100 rooms, began construction in 2019 with an initial opening date set for 2021. However, the story doesn't end there. The opening was postponed not once but twice, with 2023 and then September 2025 being the promised dates. And here's where it gets controversial—the hotel's opening was further delayed due to the pandemic, labor shortages, and inflation. These setbacks left many wondering if the hotel would ever open its doors.
Local Excitement and Impact
New Bern residents are thrilled to have a new hotel in town, especially with its prime location behind the New Bern Mall and easy access from Highway 70. "It's great to see it open; we've been waiting for so long," said Robbie Evans, a local. The hotel promises to bring a much-needed boost to the local economy, especially during popular events like MumFest and the Seafood Fest, as noted by Havelock resident Alan Frazier.
Local businesses, such as the restaurant Sake, are also excited about the potential influx of new customers. Owner Lucy Liu believes the hotel will positively impact their business.
The Grand Opening
City officials are planning a grand opening celebration for March, marking the official welcome of the Holiday Inn Express to the New Bern community.
So, was the seven-year wait justified? The residents of New Bern seem optimistic. But what do you think? Is this a case of better late than never, or could the delays have been avoided? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
