Converted Fairfield Inn to open downtown May 21

The former Best Western Inn Towne Hotel in downtown Milwaukee will reopen May 21 as a Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, according to a news release.

The hotel at 710 N. Old World Third Street has been completely renovated and expanded to include the former Powers Jewelers on Old World Third Street and the former Johnnie Walkers on West Wisconsin Avenue, said Danica Potier, director of sales. The first-floor expansion includes a lobby and breakfast area, 24-hour market, business center, fitness center, meeting space and administrative offices. The renovations also include retail space that will available for lease.

The hotel has 103 rooms and suites, she said. It has not calculated the final costs on the renovation, she said.

Magna Hospitality Group of Warwick, R.I., bought the hotel in June 2012 for $3.5 million as part of a lawsuit to pay debt its previous owner owed to BMO Harris Bank. It announced plans to convert the hotel in October.

The hotel has maintained its occupancy permit throughout the renovation but has had limited availability to guests, Potier said.

Room rates will start at $109 per night, an increase from the $75 to $80 per night charged when it was a Best Western.

Reported by:  The Greater Milwaukee Business Journal