In a significant move to preserve the rich heritage of Alpine and Fort Davis, Byways Hospitality has entered into a contract to purchase several iconic historic hotels in the region. The deal, valued at $31 million, includes the renowned Holland Hotel and Maverick Inn in Alpine, as well as the Limpia and Harvard Hotel properties in Fort Davis.
Byways Hospitality, a prominent player in the boutique hotel industry, is well-known for its commitment to restoring and revitalizing historic properties. Co-founders and partners, Brian Carrico and Collin Bibb, are leading the charge in this ambitious project. Brian, an environmental engineer with a passion for hospitality, co-founded Alexa Management and The Guild before embarking on this new venture. Collin, who has a background in football and private equity, has also worked with The Guild and brings valuable expertise to the team.
The $31 million deal not only involves the acquisition of the historic properties but also includes plans for extensive restoration work and the addition of employee housing and storage container rental units on an adjacent multi-family property behind the Maverick Inn, which is also under Byways Hospitality’s contract.
While the group is already operating the Holland Hotel, they are actively raising the $9 million in capital required to move the entire project forward. A significant portion, approximately 25%, of the needed capital has already been raised through investments from the founders’ networks and previous business associates.
To capitalize on historic tax credits, Byways Hospitality intends to maintain the original structures of the acquired properties. However, they plan to add premium touches to elevate the hotels to the standard of the esteemed Gage in Marathon, enabling them to command higher rates. Furthermore, they aim to restore the Holland Hotel to its original layout, featuring a coffee shop in place of the current restaurant and a new restaurant to serve the community and visitors alike with breakfast, lunch, and dinner service daily. Additionally, the old ballroom, presently serving as manager’s quarters, will be restored to serve as a meeting space and event venue.
The Fort Davis properties, Limpia Hotel and Harvard Hotel, are also in line for transformative changes. The street between the Limpia Hotel and the Orchard House rooms will be occupied by a relocated pool and expanded patio spaces. These upgrades will be complemented by extensive restorative efforts to bring the properties up to par with other high-end establishments in the region. Conversely, the rooms across the street at Hotel Limpia, along with the Harvard Hotel, will likely remain unchanged, offering a more affordable alternative to the upgraded Limpia rooms.
The Blue Mountain Grill and the Double Shot Coffee Lounge, both of which are located within Hotel Limpia, will see expanded menus and hours to provide a consistent and affordable food service for both locals and visitors of Fort Davis.
The Holland Hotel, located in Alpine, is an historic building with 30 restored rooms and suites. It currently operates without an elevator and is not fully accessible under the ADA. The hotel is pet-friendly, with all pet fees donated to Grand Companions, a state-of-the-art shelter in Fort Davis. The accommodations are adorned with period furnishings, private baths, and offer free Wi-Fi, providing a tranquil and comfortable retreat for guests.
The Harvard Hotel, also situated in Fort Davis, offers suites with modern amenities and overlooks the quaint downtown area, while The Maverick Inn in Alpine serves as a boutique motel, providing individually furnished guest rooms with luxury amenities and conveniences.
Byways Hospitality’s commitment to preserving and enhancing these historic gems promises to revitalize tourism and contribute to the cultural significance of both Alpine and Fort Davis. This ambitious project is set to redefine hospitality in the region, offering visitors extraordinary moments and unforgettable memories.
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That very exciting and all good.
But who will work these new places. The stores and shops and restaurants come and go because they can get no help.
The same people cycle between Alpine, Marfa and Fort Davis.
Housing is way out priced for the wages of hospitality workers.
I’m looking forward to new additions. But will not hold my breath…..