County Planning & Zoning Approves Site Plan For New Hotel

In a notable move for the development of Los Alamos, plans for a new extended-stay hotel and conference center at the entryway to downtown have received approval. The Los Alamos County Planning and Zoning Commission voted unanimously to approve the site plan for this significant project during its recent meeting on January 8.

The approved site plan outlines the construction of a three-story, 60-unit hotel equipped with a conference room. This development will be located at 400 Trinity Drive, the former location of the Hilltop House Hotel. Providing both overnight and extended-stay accommodations, the hotel intends to serve a broad range of needs for visitors to the area.

The proposed hotel will have a total footprint of 40,786 square feet, with nearly 1,000 square feet dedicated to conference facilities. However, developers have clarified that this space is tailored more towards local meetings and events rather than large regional gatherings. This thoughtful design aims to integrate seamlessly with the local community’s needs and dynamics.

Parking logistics have been a key consideration in the planning process. While the county’s Development Code necessitates 76 parking spaces, provisions for developments within the Downtown Los Alamos Zone District allow for a 20 percent reduction. The approved plan provides for 69 parking spaces in total, supplemented by 10 bicycle spaces and EV charging stations, thereby meeting all stipulated requirements.

Access to the site will be convenient, with entry points planned from both Trinity Drive and Central Avenue. However, modifications to these access points require further approvals from the County and the New Mexico Department of Transportation (NMDOT). Acknowledging this, County Engineer Eric Ulibarri expressed confidence that these approvals, while necessary, should not pose significant obstacles to progress.

Environmental concerns have also been addressed in the planning phase. Given the site’s previous use, underground storage tanks from an old gas station have been removed, followed by thorough soil testing to ensure the land is viable for new development. The team is in the process of receiving confirmation that no additional environmental action is necessary.

Despite forward momentum, not all feedback on the project has been supportive. Concerns were voiced by Councilor David Reagor regarding the repeated emergence of conference center projects, questioning the necessity of such facilities given existing ones in the region. Nevertheless, developers remain unaware of any restrictions that would preclude the development of a conference center.

The potential benefits of the new hotel are substantial. By assuming control of the site, the new owners have addressed over $1 million in county liens and rectified previous financial defaults. The investment has laid the groundwork for a project that promises to enhance the local economy and align with Los Alamos’ downtown master plans aimed at revitalizing the area.

This development is not just about adding another building; it’s part of a broader strategy to address housing shortages and boost economic vitality. The extended-stay aspect of the hotel aims to alleviate demand on alternative accommodations, such as Airbnb, and inject more visitors into the local economy. Furthermore, the commitment to achieving LEED gold certification underscores a dedication to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The project leaders describe this initiative as a new face for the gateway into the downtown area, contributing to urban renewal one building at a time. Their comprehensive approach addresses the complex needs and goals outlined in the city’s development plans, presenting an exciting opportunity for growth and enhancement in Los Alamos.

Ultimately, the approval of the site plan marks a significant step toward redefining the urban landscape of downtown Los Alamos, balancing the need for modern amenities with sustainable, community-minded development. As this project moves forward, it promises to be a pivotal addition to the community infrastructure, fostering a dynamic and vibrant urban center.