On December 6, 2024, Lake Charles Mayor Nic Hunter, along with partners from ReNew Lake Charles LLC, announced plans for a new lakefront hotel and an amphitheater. The private investment group will construct a 154-room Hilton Garden Inn north of the Lake Charles Event Center on property leased from the city.
The hotel will include a full-service restaurant and lounge overlooking the lake, accessible to both guests and non-guests. Additionally, it will feature a second-story pool. The City of Lake Charles will build additional conference and convention center space designed to meet modern event needs. This development aims to attract regional conventions currently bypassing Lake Charles due to outdated facilities.
Gene Thibodeaux, Managing Member of ReNew Lake Charles LLC and retired Chief Judge of the Third Circuit Court of Appeal, stated that "ReNew will create a modern, first-class experience that will anchor Southwest Louisiana’s future as a capable host destination."
Keith DuRousseau, member of Renew Lake Charles LLC and owner of Keiland Construction, added that the new venue would prevent groups from needing to travel to Lafayette or Beaumont for events. "We can host them right here in Lake Charles and bring activity back to our downtown lakefront," he said.
Corey Mitchell, Senior Director of Hilton Development, expressed Hilton's enthusiasm for working with the city and noted that "Lake Charles is a growing market for Hilton." He emphasized their goal to provide innovative accommodations.
In addition to the hotel project, the City has entered into a purchase agreement for the former Capital One Tower site. This location will serve as home for a new amphitheater included in the LC REBOUND bond proposal. Mayor Nic Hunter explained that these projects would strategically connect various parts of downtown.
The planned amphitheater will have a capacity of 3,500 and is expected to enhance event quality while attracting new live music events and festivals. Kyle Edmiston, President and CEO of Visit Lake Charles, highlighted that this proposal could elevate Lake Charles as a destination location by bringing in new visitors and revenue.
Mayor Hunter assured citizens that these developments come without additional tax burdens due to public-private partnerships. Construction is set to begin in late 2025 with completion anticipated by early 2027. The City Council will discuss related agenda items at their meeting on December 18, 2024.
Community members are invited to view plans and provide feedback at sessions scheduled at Lake Charles City Hall on December 11, 2024.
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