Jacksonville, AL – A groundbreaking ceremony for the Fairfield by Marriott, a 79-room hotel designed to meet Jacksonville’s growing lodging needs, was held today at 10 a.m. on JD-L Drive SW, between AlaTrust Credit Union and the Hampton Inn. The event marked a significant milestone in the city’s economic development and tourism efforts, with local and regional leaders, representatives from Marriott, and developers Rohogo Management Group in attendance.
Mayor Johnny Smith highlighted the importance of the project for the city’s growth. “With Jacksonville State University’s record-breaking enrollment and events like the annual Cheaha Challenge bike race and performances at the Randy Owen Center for the Performing Arts, this hotel is vital for accommodating visitors,” Smith said. “It’s a sign of our city’s progress and potential.” Mayor Smith also added, “This is an exciting day for the City of Jacksonville and JSU with the addition of a new hotel for the city.”
Jacksonville State University President Don Killingsworth underscored the collaboration between the university and the city. Speaking to the Calhoun Journal, he said, “This is a great opportunity for not only the city but the university. As we continue to grow with the largest enrollment and the infrastructure improvements that we have had, we’re excited to see the growth of the city and bringing in hotel options for our fans, students, and families that are coming to support the institution as well. Also, Wes Long is a good partner for us and the city.”
Wes Long, developer of the nearby Hampton Inn and the Fairfield by Marriott, expressed his enthusiasm for the project. “Jacksonville has been good to us, and we’re thrilled to contribute to its future with the Fairfield by Marriott. This project will help meet the growing demand for quality accommodations,” Long said.
County Commissioner Danny Shears praised Jacksonville’s leadership for fostering growth. “This is just another example of one of our communities here in Calhoun County that seems to be doing things the right way,” Shears said. “Jacksonville has become a very attractive city for families and for business growth. I want to applaud the mayor, city council, and all those involved in bringing another much-needed hotel to this community.”
Commissioner Terry Howell highlighted the collaborative efforts driving the city’s success. “We’re elected by district, but as a county commissioner, I support the entire county, which obviously includes Jacksonville,” Howell said. “This city has been a great partner to the County Commission, and I see tremendous growth ahead, fueled by projects like this and Jacksonville State University.”
Don Hopper, Executive Director of the Economic Development Council, pointed to the hotel’s broader implications. “This is another opportunity to show the growth and quality of life we have here in the county,” Hopper said. “It’s a reflection of the work being done to make Jacksonville a vibrant, welcoming community.”
Jacksonville City Councilmember Sherry Laster shared her perspective on the hotel’s significance. “As a city councilmember, welcoming a new hotel to your community likely feels exciting and fulfilling. It represents progress and growth for the city, bringing potential economic benefits such as increased tourism, job creation, and tax revenue. It can also enhance the city’s reputation as a vibrant and accommodating destination. You might also feel a sense of responsibility to ensure the project aligns with the community’s needs and values, from infrastructure support to maintaining the charm and integrity of Jacksonville. It could also present opportunities to engage with constituents, local businesses, and stakeholders to make the most of this development for the community.”
City Councilmember Tony Taylor likened the hotel to a pivotal component of Jacksonville’s ongoing progress. “I look at Jacksonville like a big puzzle. And this is a very big piece of the puzzle,” Taylor said. “We know we lose a lot of revenue to other municipalities because we don’t have more places for people to stay. And if they stay, they shop. This is tangible evidence of the growth we’ve experienced over the last seven or eight years. It’s a sign that our efforts are paying off and Jacksonville is moving forward.”
Representative Chad Robertson also celebrated the project, stating, “This is great for the city of Jacksonville. We’re increasing the capacity for our visitors here, any kind of event. And I think it’ll help the local economy, and we’re proud to have them.”
Senator Keith Kelley spoke to the broader growth of Jacksonville, emphasizing the connection between the hotel project and the city’s continued development. “I think it’s an exciting time for Jacksonville as Jacksonville continues to grow, not just with the growth of the university, but with the growth of the community and the commercial sector as well,” Kelley said. “I think the hotel will open a whole other avenue for tourism to go along with the others in the area to provide an economic boost to our area.”
City Councilman Terry Wilson added, “This is an exciting day for Jacksonville. We are happy that Wes believes in what the city is doing. It’s great to see this investment in our community.”
The Fairfield by Marriott will feature modern accommodations, including suites tailored to meet the needs of visitors attending Jacksonville State University events and exploring local attractions. Construction is set to begin immediately, further positioning Jacksonville as a destination for families, businesses, and tourists.
