Upland breaks ground for new hotel across from Taylor University

The town of Upland will soon have a 38-room hotel across the street from Taylor University.  IPR’s Thomas Ouellette reports from the ground breaking that’s part of a larger economic development strategy for the town.

According to Taylor University officials, Upland doesn’t have any hotels. This means visitors have to either get a short-term rental in town or stay in other places like Gas City.

Andrea Masvero is the Executive Director of 1846 Enterprises, an organization that creates “revenue-generating opportunities” for Taylor University. She says the new hotel will benefit more than just the families of university students.

“A hotel really draws in visitors and hospitality dollars that drive the local economy,” she says. “So, we can cycle dollars through our own cohorts, our own residents. But really we want to bring in those outside dollars to make sure that the economic development in town is happening.”

Read More: Upland and Taylor University begin revitalization to connect school and community

Masvero says, once construction is complete, rooms at the hotel will be priced at the market rate. 

The hotel will eventually be joined by 14 guest cottages and a wedding venue. The total cost of the project is about $35 million, with a construction time of 2.5 years. Masvero says the cottages will be available for purchase and owners can develop their own revenue plans to rent out the property themselves.

The money comes from a Lilly Endowment Grant received in 2024 and other matching funds in the Upland area. The funds from this initiative must be used by December 2028.  Masvero says none of the construction cost is being paid for through tuition revenue or university operating dollars.

Taylor University President, Michael Lindsay, says he is excited for the other upcoming community revitalization projects.

“In addition to the collegiate end and the active adult community, we’re building housing up and down Main Street, opportunities for a destination restaurant, a mixed-use development,” said Lindsay. “We’re doubling the size of the local public library and a host of other smaller investments to help make Upland the most charming small town in America.”

According to Lindsay, a name for the hotel has not been decided on yet.

Thomas Ouellette is our reporter and producer. Contact him at thomas.ouellette@bsu.edu