The state of Alabama’s image as a place to drive through on the way to the beach has rapidly changed in recent years with the growth of luxury hotels and upscale destinations.
Behind the development is the state’s pension fund, which has invested a half billion dollars to Alabama’s largest hotel developer.
Along with the hotels has come a spurt of golf course developments.
There are now more than 10 new golf courses designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
“The courses started off slowly, but they soon were drawing praise from golf magazines throughout the world. Today, they’re a hit, drawing about 500,000 visitors a year — mostly from outside Alabama,” reported the AP.
The state’s Retirement Systems hotel arm, PCH Hotels and Resorts, is now operating 1,464 rooms with another 587 expected this year.
The hotels operate under the Marriott or Renaissance brand. Rates approach $300 a night.
The hotels have also been attracting new regional convention business.
Report by David Wilkening
