A new 154-room AC Hotel by Marriott is planned for Bridge Street Town Centre, adding another hospitality project to one of Huntsville’s fastest-growing commercial corridors.
New York-based Spandrel Development Partners announced Tuesday it will develop the AC Hotel Research Park adjacent to Cummings Research Park and within Bridge Street Town Centre. Construction is expected to begin soon, with the hotel anticipated to open in 2028.
The project marks the company’s first hotel development and its entry into the hospitality sector.
Company officials said Huntsville’s continued population growth, expanding federal presence and growing defense, aerospace and technology industries made the city an attractive location for the investment.
“Huntsville’s federal, defense and aerospace employment base creates a demand profile that is distinct from most Sun Belt growth markets,” said Emanuel Neuman, co-founder of Spandrel Development Partners.
The hotel will be located near two of Alabama’s largest economic drivers: Cummings Research Park and Redstone Arsenal. Together, the two employment centers support tens of thousands of jobs and generate significant business travel throughout the year.
According to the announcement, recent federal and private-sector announcements are expected to further increase demand for lodging in the area. The FBI continues to expand operations at Redstone Arsenal, U.S. Space Command is relocating its headquarters to Huntsville, and pharmaceutical giant Eli Lilly recently announced plans for a $6 billion manufacturing campus in the city.
The AC Hotel Research Park will feature approximately 4,000 square feet of meeting and conference space, along with a restaurant, bar and fitness center. Guests will also have direct access to Bridge Street Town Centre’s mix of retail, dining and entertainment venues.
Marriott officials said the project will help meet demand for more upscale lodging options in the Research Park area.
“Huntsville continues to demonstrate strong demand fundamentals for high-quality, design-forward hospitality offerings,” said Chris DiBenedetto of Marriott International.
Spandrel officials said the development is intended to serve both government and corporate travelers visiting Huntsville’s growing research, defense and aerospace sectors.
In addition to the hotel, the company owns approximately 4.5 acres at the site and plans to develop a build-to-suit office building adjacent to the property.
Peachtree Group is providing construction financing for the development.
The project represents the latest addition to Huntsville’s expanding hospitality market, which has seen significant hotel growth in recent years as the city continues to attract new residents, employers and visitors.
