MEMPHIS, Tenn. (localmemphis.com) – Loews plans to build a new 500 room hotel in Memphis just steps away from Memphis’ tallest eyesore: 100 North Main. The original plan was for Loews to work with a developer, renovate 100 North Main, and turn it into a hotel, but that plan fell apart earlier this month.
So, what does it mean for the future of 100 North Main?
The new Loews will be up just steps away from the abandoned 100 North Main Street building.
The head of the Downtown Memphis Commission says 100 North Main is wider than the footprint of Loews hotels, and that was just one of the challenges.
“Ultimately, we have made the decision that the hotel would be best on the plaza. But there are many options for 100 N. Main that we continue to work through,” said Jennifer Oswalt with the Downtown Memphis Commission.
Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland says the city is committed to finding a new use for 100 North Main. The 37-story building has been in environmental court since 2015.
“We’re hoping there are other uses for that, either residential or office or retail. We are willing to work with those developers. We appreciate their commitment to Memphis,” said Strickland.
So for now, the future of 100 N. Main is once again in limbo. The question is for how long?
“We really are looking forward with working with both entities for a good solution for this entire block. We believe there are enough options to have a good option for both of them,” said Oswalt.
Oswalt said part of Main Street may have to be open to vehicles to accommodate the traffic once the new hotel is built.