Aiken’s Historic Hotel Aiken Up for Sale
The city of Aiken is making strides to revitalize its downtown area by putting the historic Hotel Aiken and nearby properties on the market. The city has partnered with Colliers, a commercial real estate company, to seek proposals from potential developers. This move is part of Aiken’s ongoing efforts to meet the growing needs for housing and hospitality in the region.
According to a news release from the city, Aiken’s Mayor, Teddy Milner, expressed that the goal is to rejuvenate a critical section of the city’s historic downtown. He stated, “The availability of the Hotel Aiken and neighboring parcels offers an exciting opportunity for developers to contribute to Aiken’s ongoing growth and prosperity.” With this initiative, the city aims to maintain its local identity while enhancing the area’s appeal.
About Hotel Aiken and Its Significance
For the past 125 years, Hotel Aiken has been a staple in downtown Aiken, strategically located at one end of the most significant commercial block along Laurens Street, between Park Avenue and Richland Avenue. Currently, it is not operating as a hotel, which presents a unique opportunity for redevelopment. The site spans 28,406 square feet and includes an additional 34,313 square feet of retail space across 1.36 acres.
These parcels are situated along Richland Avenue, close to other main streets like Newberry Street and Laurens Street. The location is just a short drive from the USC Aiken campus and within walking distance of popular restaurants, shops, and entertainment options.
City Officials Weigh In
The city manager, Stuart Bedenbaugh, also acknowledged the partnership with Colliers, stating, “We are confident that Colliers will help the city identify the right buyer for these properties.” The aim is to leverage the historical value of these sites while integrating modern features that will benefit residents, businesses, and visitors alike.
Tourism Potential
Located less than 20 miles from the famous Augusta National Golf Club, Hotel Aiken stands to gain significantly from annual tourism associated with events like the Masters Tournament. The city acquired Hotel Aiken and adjacent parcels back in 2021 to address various strategic goals, which include restoring historically significant sites and enhancing their attractiveness to both locals and tourists.
Next Steps for Interested Developers
The city’s request for proposals is open to developers interested in contributing to Aiken’s urban development. The city hopes to find a buyer who will not only respect the building’s historical importance but also breathe new life into it, making it a vibrant part of downtown once again.
As Aiken continues to grow and evolve, the call to action for developers is clear: there is an exciting opportunity to shape the future of this iconic corner in Aiken, ensuring that it meets the demands of a changing community while preserving its rich history.
For those interested in participating in the proposal process, specific details on submission requirements and deadlines can be obtained through the city’s official communications.
