Aiken, September 25, 2025

News Summary

Aiken City is inviting residents to participate in public feedback sessions on September 29 and 30 regarding renovations for the historic Hotel Aiken. The sessions will focus on preliminary design plans aimed at revitalizing the hotel, which has been dormant for years. With a legacy spanning 125 years, Hotel Aiken is set for renewal through a partnership with the Oliver Group. Community excitement is building as the project is seen as a catalyst for downtown revitalization.

Aiken City Invites Public Feedback for Upcoming Hotel Aiken Renovations Scheduled for Late September

Aiken City is set to host public input sessions on September 29 and 30 to gather feedback on upcoming renovations for the historic Hotel Aiken. These drop-in style meetings will focus on preliminary and conceptual design plans for the hotel and its surrounding areas, with the goal of reviving this dormant landmark.

Local businesses and nonprofits in South Carolina are also encouraged to apply for federal disaster assistance in relation to the severe flooding that occurred last November. This sense of urgency comes alongside Aiken’s ambitious plan to revitalize the hotel, which has faced a long period of dormancy.

In June, the Aiken City Council entered negotiations with the Oliver Group, a company known for its specialization in renovating historic properties, to initiate the refurbishment of Hotel Aiken. The firm brings over 15 years of experience in these types of projects across the Southeast. Aiken leaders believe that the redevelopment of Hotel Aiken could catalyze further revitalization efforts in downtown Aiken.

Hotel Aiken boasts a 125-year history and is classified as a contributing historic property, which means it is eligible for renovation but cannot be demolished. This preservation reflects the city’s commitment to maintaining its historical landmarks. The decision to contract with Oliver Hospitality was made during a well-attended city council meeting, which demonstrated significant public interest in the hotel’s future.

In total, six bids were submitted for Hotel Aiken and five other downtown properties, showcasing a variety of interests among hoteliers and developers in urban redevelopment. The city currently aims to finalize sales of multiple properties, including Hotel Aiken, in order to reduce ongoing maintenance costs and generate future revenue.

Aiken City Manager Stuart Bedenbaugh has indicated that a dedicated group will evaluate the proposals submitted and make recommendations to the city council regarding the best path forward. City officials are considering various options, including potentially collaborating with multiple groups or reinitiating the proposal process, depending on the evaluations and negotiations that take place.

Residents of Aiken have expressed optimism about the potential for transformation that the Hotel Aiken renovations could bring. This enthusiasm signals a community desire for change and revitalization, transforming a once derelict area into a vibrant space that nurtures interaction among residents and visitors alike.

Key Highlights of the Hotel Aiken Initiative:

• Public feedback sessions on September 29 and 30.
• Renovations involve preliminary and conceptual design plans.
• Hotel Aiken has a historic legacy spanning 125 years.
• Negotiations with the Oliver Group, specialists in historic property renovation.
• Six bids submitted along with five other properties, indicating strong interest.
• City aims to finalize sales of properties to reduce costs.
• Residents excited about proposed changes in downtown Aiken.

Background Context

The Hotel Aiken has long been a fixture in the community, and its preservation aligns with broader efforts to rejuvenate downtown Aiken. The Oliver Group’s involvement marks a step toward breathing new life into the hotel while respecting its historical significance. Local leaders view the redevelopment as a pivotal point for attracting more visitors and enhancing local businesses, thereby driving economic growth in the area.

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Additional Resources

• WRDW: Hotel Aiken Renovations Public Meetings
• Wikipedia
• WFXG: Hotel Aiken Restoration
• Google Search: Hotel Aiken renovation
• Post and Courier: Hotel Aiken Bids
• Encyclopedia Britannica: Hotel Aiken

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