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Developers pitch 100-home affordable neighborhood and 82-room dual-brand hotel at Rollins work session
Summary
Developers presented a concept for about 20 acres east of the TA that could yield roughly 100 homes and an optional dual-brand (Sleep Inn/MainStay) hotel with about 82 rooms; the plan emphasizes net-zero construction panels and solar and asks council to consider infrastructure and WYDOT access. Council asked for follow-up analysis and further work sessions.
At a Dec. 2 work session, developers presented preliminary plans for a mixed residential and commercial development east of the TA that would include roughly 100 single-family-equivalent homes on about 20 acres and a dual-brand hotel offering approximately 82 keys.
Developer Frank (identified in the transcript by his first name) and Jeffrey Darkey of NGH Group described the concept as flexible: the residential portion would remain R-7.5 unless council and market demand support multifamily, and the commercial parcel could host restaurants, family entertainment, or lodging. Jeffrey Darkey introduced his role: “My name is Jeffrey Darkey, and I'm the president and CEO of NGH Group,” and developers said they had completed a feasibility study and discussed brand interest from Choice Hotels for a dual-brand configuration.
Key proposals and details: developers pointed to a conceptual yield of about 100 homes on 20 acres (transcript references the 100-house estimate directly), discussed net-zero construction using thermal steel panel systems intended to improve energy efficiency and fire resistance, and said solar installations would be part of the program. Frank and project partners proposed local hiring where practical and noted they would pursue grants or state programs to help fund infrastructure. The development team presented a conceptual site plan, unit types and a potential community-serving tenant mix including a family-oriented bar/restaurant and other retail.
Council response and next steps: council members asked for more specificity on unit counts, infrastructure (street access and WYDOT permitting for new cuts), and costs. Councilmembers noted possible synergies with the penitentiary, the TA and existing freight parking issues on nearby access roads; one councilmember recommended evaluating the overpass width and truck-parking needs. State-level possibilities for low-interest infrastructure loans and grants were raised by a councilor participating in the meeting. Staff and developers agreed to schedule follow-up work sessions with more detailed lot counts, infrastructure costs and permitting paths.
What's next: developers will return for further work sessions and staff will coordinate follow-up studies on access, utilities and possible state funding avenues. Council did not take any binding action at this session; it was an informational presentation and direction to continue planning.
