Arkansas State Considers Development of Hotel, Conference Center On Campus

Arkansas State University said it is considering a public-private partnership that would develop a hotel and conference center on it Jonesboro campus.

The university is evaluating proposals received through the procurement process from two hotel development firms for the project.

“We are continually looking for ways to enhance learning for our students, increase revenues for the university and serve our city and region,” Hudson said. “This development could have a positive impact in each of those areas.”

ASU’s preferred site for the hotel and convention center is between Red Wolf Boulevard (U.S. 49) and Olympic Drive where the track and field complex was previously located. The site is near Liberty Bank Stadium, the Convocation, and Fowler Center.

“This location would be convenient for overnight visitors attending events on campus,” said Shawnie Carrier, the chancellor’s Chief of Staff, who is the project coordinator. “It would allow conventions to take advantage of our additional meeting space in the vicinity, and it’s convenient to access from Red Wolf Boulevard.”

ASU says Jonesboro Mayor Harold Perrin has indicated support for the project. Carrier said that increasing the number of conventions and visitors to the city would help retailers, restaurants, and other lodging businesses.

The two firms submitting proposals are Wallace Bajjali Development Partners LP of Sugar Land, Texas, in partnership with O’Reilly Hospitality Management LLC, and Jonesboro Hotel and Convention Center LLC, led by the Keller family of Effingham, Ill.

Wallace Bajjali proposed a 150-bed hotel and a conference/meetings facility of up to 75,000 square feet. The proposal does not identify a specific hotel brand but notes that O’Reilly has existing relationships with the Hilton, Holiday Inn and Wyndham family of brands.

Jonesboro Hotel and Convention Center proposes a 150-plus room “luxury select service hotel” and specifically identifies Hyatt Place as its proposed brand. The proposal outlines a 30,000-plus-square-foot convention center and a 45,000-square-foot exhibit hall.

Both proposals outline support, including classroom space and internships, for a hospitality management degree program that is being considered by ASU.