PHOTOS: Demolition at former downtown Radisson

Posted to: Business News Norfolk
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By Roy Bahls
The Virginian-Pilot
© September 15, 2009

NORFOLK

Backhoes clawed today at a two-story wing of the soon-to-be Crowne Plaza Norfolk on Monticello Avenue.

The former Radisson Hotel Norfolk is nearly 50 years old and is undergoing a complete, multi-million dollar renovation of its 12 floors.

The hotel has had many incarnations since it opened as the Golden Triangle Hotel in 1961. It has been branded as a Holiday Inn, Howard Johnson and Clarion, and had flown the Radisson flag since 2000. Recently, it became the Norfolk Plaza.

In the photos, one of the two two-story wings of the hotel is being torn down. The open space will become a park setting. The new hotel will have 210 rooms and is scheduled to open Nov. 3.

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CROWNE PLAZA HOTEL

Submitted by zzdanezz on Thu, 09/17/2009 at 2:25 pm.

Any growth, renovation and revitalization in the Norfolk area should be perceived as POSITIVE, especially when considering the current economy and business environment. The new owners and management company of this beautiful and historic hotel are investing in Norfolk’s growth, and are investing a fortune. Let’s give this re-birth of such a historic hotel a chance and support it.

Negativity

Submitted by margaretf37134 on Wed, 09/16/2009 at 8:38 am.

Such pessimistic comments. Give the place a chance. Love the photos.

Upscale, crime, public

Submitted by willy27540 on Tue, 09/15/2009 at 8:00 pm.

Upscale, crime, public housing don't mix.

No matter how much lipstick

Submitted by PCinSoCal on Tue, 09/15/2009 at 3:39 pm.

No matter how much lipstick the owners put on that hotel, it will always be a PIG. The location and the access to it's front door have hampered it throughout it's life.
Not too many travelers want to stay right across the street from a large public housing community. Especially one that has a reputation for violent crimes. The only way this property could be successful was if the area around the hotel were to be redeveloped and the housing project was removed.
To be successful, hotels in downtown Norfolk need to be located closer to the attractions and office buildings.

Well the city is planning on

Submitted by ronsmytheiii on Tue, 09/15/2009 at 9:46 pm.

Well the city is planning on redeveloping the housing projects, look at the St. Paul's Quadrant plan:

http://www.norfolk.gov/planning/SaintPaulsQuadrant.asp

Of course it will not develop the area immediately next door, but then again I have never been a fan of this hotel. If a developer wants to try to redevelop the hotel, it is their money on the line.

PC: You'd be amazed, though,

Submitted by cowpower on Tue, 09/15/2009 at 6:20 pm.

PC:
You'd be amazed, though, how valuable that property is for overflow from other hotels when conventions are in town. And it also provides a lower price point for rooms that are attractive to some groups. Some groups can't afford $125-$175/night that they may have to pay at other higher end downtown properties. Some groups, like military reunion groups need rooms for well less than $100/night. It may be a pig, but it has it's purpose, and they have a committed management company willing to invest.