Opposition Mounts Against $60 Million Hotel on Paris Mountain

News Summary

Travelers Rest residents are voicing strong opposition to the proposed $60 million Inn at Altamont hotel on Paris Mountain. While the luxury hotel promises amenities like a ballroom and farm-to-table dining, a petition opposing the project has garnered over 4,000 signatures. Concerns include potential traffic congestion, rising property costs, and disruption to the scenic beauty of Altamont Road. A public meeting is scheduled to address community feedback before the hotel developers move forward with zoning requests.

Opposition Grows for Proposed $60 Million Marriott Hotel on Paris Mountain

Travelers Rest is buzzing with chatter as a proposed $60 million hotel on Paris Mountain is stirring up both excitement and concern among its residents. The hotel, named the Inn at Altamont and brought forth by The Divine Group of Greenville, promises to bring a touch of luxury with its plans for 150 rooms, a ballroom, event lawn, farm-to-table dining, and even a resort-style pool and spa.

However, there’s a twist in this tale. Just as quickly as the proposal was announced, a petition has gone viral, capturing the attention of the public and the signatures of over 4,000 individuals who are against the project. The petition reflects the profound love that locals have for their town, especially the picturesque Altamont Road where the hotel is planned to be built.

A Scenic Spot for All

Altamont Road is nothing short of a treasure in Travelers Rest. Known for its scenic views, it attracts not just tourists but also avid bicyclists who frequent the area for training. Many residents cherish this breathtaking landscape, seeing it as a peaceful retreat away from the bustling pace of life. The thought of a large-scale resort altering such a serene haven does not sit well for numerous locals.

Concerns on the Rise

Opponents of the hotel worry about the potential impact it could have on the community. The construction could lead to increased traffic congestion, rising property costs, and what some fear might be the troublesome issue of alcohol consumption after events, given the hospitality aspects the developers plan to integrate.

Many voices have echoed the sentiment that this large resort threatens the unique identity of Travelers Rest. Locals value the comforting charm of their town and feel that the hotel could disrupt the peace and tranquility that they hold dear. This proposed development is viewed as a dramatic shift from the traditional values cherished within the community.

Public Discussion on the Horizon

To address the community’s concerns, a public meeting has been scheduled for February 10 from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Younts Conference Center. This forum will allow residents to voice their thoughts about the hotel and express their unease or support for the project.

Developer’s Vision vs. Local Sentiment

The Divine Group envisions the hotel as a prime venue for significant events, such as weddings and business conventions, aiming to market it as a luxurious escape. However, this vision collides with the heartfelt dream of residents who wish to preserve the natural beauty and wildlife of Paris Mountain.

While there are supporters who see potential economic benefits in this development, many residents are reluctant to sacrifice the unblemished natural landscape they’ve grown to love. Critically, there are fears that the project could lead to land loss that wildlife depends upon.

What’s Next?

The Divine Group has yet to submit their request to annex and rezone the 40-acre site into the city of Travelers Rest, but they plan to do so in March. Following this, a public hearing along with an approval from the city’s Planning Commission is necessary before the project can be presented to the Travelers Rest City Council.

In a nutshell, the sentiment is clear: while the idea of a luxury hotel has its allure, the heart and soul of Travelers Rest rests in its tranquil beauty, and for many, that is worth fighting for. The community stands at a crossroads—will they choose to embrace change or preserve the peaceful haven that is Paris Mountain?

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Additional Resources

• The State
• Wikipedia: Travelers Rest, South Carolina
• Fox Carolina
• Google Search: Travelers Rest hotel proposal
• MSN News
• Google Scholar: luxury hotel proposals
• Hawaii News Now
• Encyclopedia Britannica: hotel development