Historic Hotel Aiken Up for Sale in Downtown Aiken

Historic Hotel Aiken Up for Sale in Downtown Aiken

The city of Aiken has officially put the historic Hotel Aiken on the market, seeking developers to breathe new life into this landmark property and surrounding parcels. The initiative, announced through a public request for proposals, aims to address the growing housing and hospitality demands while maintaining the city’s unique character.

City’s Commitment to Revitalization

Aiken Mayor Teddy Milner expressed strong support for the project, saying, “The city’s goal is to revitalize a vital part of its historic downtown area to address increasing housing and hospitality demands while preserving Aiken’s local identity.” The opportunity to acquire Hotel Aiken and its neighboring parcels has been described as an exciting chance for developers who want to actively contribute to Aiken’s continued growth.

Details on the Property

The Hotel Aiken has held a significant place in downtown Aiken for over 125 years. It is strategically situated on Laurens Street, which is a significant commercial hub in the area, located between Park Avenue and Richland Avenue. Currently, the hotel is not operational, according to the real estate firm Colliers, leading to unique redevelopment opportunities.

The sale includes the hotel’s 28,406 square feet of historical site and an additional 34,313 square feet of retail space spread over 1.36 acres. The property enjoys an excellent location along Richland Avenue, conveniently positioned near major roads and approximately four miles from the University of South Carolina Aiken campus. Moreover, it lies within walking distance of popular dining, shopping, and entertainment locations.

City Officials Optimistic

Stuart Bedenbaugh, the City Manager, also emphasized the city’s optimism about the collaboration with Colliers. He stated, “We are confident that Colliers will help the city identify the right buyer for these properties and will preserve their historic value while updating with modern amenities to benefit our citizens, businesses, and visitors.” This statement indicates a strong commitment to preserving the town’s historical significance while moving toward modern development.

Potential for Tourism Growth

The location of Hotel Aiken could also leverage annual tourism drawn by Augusta National Golf Club, home to the renowned Masters Tournament, which is less than 20 miles away. This proximity positions Aiken as a prime destination for visitors in the region, especially during major sporting events.

The city acquired Hotel Aiken and the surrounding parcels in 2021, with strategic goals in mind. These include restoring unused historical sites and enhancing their appeal not only for growing residents but also for tourism. This initiative underscores Aiken’s commitment to maintaining its historical charm while embracing future growth.

Next Steps for Interested Developers

As the city moves forward with the sale, interested developers will be able to submit proposals outlining their visions for the property. The city hopes to choose a developer who shares its goals of revitalization and harmony with the local community. With a focus on balancing the preservation of the past with the needs of the future, Aiken is serious about the redevelopment of this key area.

Those wishing to learn more about the property or submit proposals can contact Colliers South Carolina for further details.