Commission denies dual-brand hotel SUP amid concerns about extended-stay component

The Planning and Zoning Commission voted 6-0 to deny a specific-use permit request for a dual-brand hotel combining a full-service hotel and an extended-stay component on Maynard Parkway. Staff presented the application and noted that full-service hotels are permitted by right under PD-47 while extended-stay components require a specific-use permit.

Town staff summarized conditional standards for extended-stay/full-service combinations — including a required minimum of 15% open space, at least 10,000 square feet of meeting space, amenities and masonry façades — and said the application met the technical thresholds for the SUP. Applicant Wilson Palmer of Pitt Street Group described a $40 million dual-brand Hilton project and projected lodging revenue, telling commissioners the development would support local jobs and tax receipts.

Despite the staff recommendation, several commissioners said they were uncomfortable with the extended-stay portion and preferred full-service hotel uses for Prosper’s gateway. Commissioner Feirey moved to deny the SUP, and Commissioner Butler seconded; the motion carried 6-0.

Wilson Palmer, the developer, urged approval and said the dual brand is a single, integrated hotel and that the project would generate local revenue. "We're expecting $20,000,000 a year revenue," Palmer said in support of the project's local economic benefit.

Next steps: With the commission’s denial, the item will not advance as recommended to town council in its current SUP form; the record shows staff may re-evaluate next steps with the applicant if the project team seeks alternate zoning or a revised application.