Atmore, AL, April 04, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA), the economic development arm of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians has invested more than $170M into the State of Alabama during the first quarter of this year.
The Fairfield Inn and Suites and Holiday Inn Express hotels in Atmore were both integrated and brought into CIEDA’s portfolio at the beginning of 2019. These hotel properties are in the process being remodeled and brought up to current brand standards. They are the seventh and eighth hotels to be added to the CIEDA portfolio of hotels, and will be a great addition to the portfolio. The total investment of these properties is $18M, and are located off Hwy. 21 and Interstate 65 and are in close proximity to Wind Creek Casino Atmore.
The new AC Hotel by Marriott in Huntsville that opened on Monday March 25th was another major investment with a project cost totaling $31M. This property features 120 rooms and is the second Huntsville hotel investment for CIEDA. To learn more about the AC Hotel in Huntsville visit https://achotels.marriott.com/hotels/ac-hotel-huntsville
OWA, in Foley Alabama’s Gulf Coast region, is a world-class, award-winning entertainment destination that has recently announced significant investments into its ever-expanding attractions line up. Released during the first quarter of 2019, these investments total more than $121.3M and will be developed over the next two years. While the resort already boasts an amusement park with 22-attractions, 150-room Marriott TownePlace suites, and more than 14 shopping, dining, and live entertainment options. CIEDA’s investments will top $350 million+ committed to the destinations advancements, which include the newest additions in Phase II:
- Legends in Concert, the longest-running show in Las Vegas is packed with all-star talent and powerhouse vocals from some of the world’s top tribute artist. With an all-new residency in Downtown OWA, the intimate 430 seat theater will debut Summer 2019 entertaining audiences of all ages. VisitOWA.com/LegendsinConcert
- Paula Deen’s Family Kitchen exemplifies traditional Southern hospitality and brings her famous family recipes to the restaurant table. The restaurant will be accompanied by a retail store featuring items hand-selected by Paula Deen to reflect her gracious taste and Savannah’s rich cultural heritage. Opening Summer 2019. VisitOWA.com/PaulaDeen
- Level Up Game Center, an e-Sports video game facility in Downtown OWA, will offer guests the opportunity to enjoy PC or console play on top-of-the-line equipment in a fun, competitive environment. Opening Summer 2019.
- Mystic Mansion is the newest addition to The Park at OWA’s ever expanding attractions line-up. The indoor, air-conditioned attraction will take guests through an interactive, black light experience using ghost blasters to catch the ghouls along the way, while competing with fellow riders for the highest score. Opening Summer 2019. VisitOWA.com/MysticMansion
- Sweet Tooth at OWA will be opening Summer 2019 offering guests a delicious option to fulfill any sugary “sweet tooth” craving with an array of candies, drinks, and sweet surprises. Opening Summer 2019.
- Alabama’s First Indoor Waterpark will soon call OWA it’s home. Design plans are underway to create a state-of-the-art indoor waterpark offering a variety of slides, waves, and attractions to provide both visitors and locals with year-round fun. Opening early 2021.
- A Second Hotel with Conference Space will provide an additional 200-room option for guests seeking a great space to meet, gather, or getaway at OWA. Opening early 2021.
- Guests wishing to bring their home away from home on their trip to OWA can soon enjoy a new 100+ lot RV Park set to open early 2020 with a variety of amenities and comforts.
Cody Williamson, CIEDA President/CEO commented, “We are excited to be able to invest heavily in our home State. With regard to tourism, Alabama has much to offer. Regardless if visitors come to Alabama to see our amazing amusement park and shops at OWA, our pristine beaches or the beauty of downtown Huntsville, we want to make sure they leave with a sense of what Alabama hospitality is all about. We know that growing Alabama’s hospitality industry is a great way to facilitate more tourism, which in turn drives more jobs and increased growth for our State. In this way, we understand that investing in Alabama is a win-win for everyone.
###
About the Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority
Working as the economic development arm of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA) oversees the non-gaming enterprises owned by the Tribe. CIEDA actively supports each of its business in achieving their specific business goals to grow and maintain economic sustainability as put forth by the CIEDA Board of Directors and Tribal Council.