By Morgan Bryce
Opelika Observer
Tuesday marked the groundbreaking of Opelika’s newest hotel chain, Home 2 Suites by Hilton, at Capps Landing. This location is one of 40 Home 2 Suites locations that are being constructed throughout the country.
Developed by local hospitality management and hotel development company PHD Hotels, this is the construction of their 20th location and fifth in the Auburn-Opelika area.
PHD Hotels, Inc., was founded by Thomas Hunt and Howard Porter in 1998. Hunt, who started working in the hotel industry in 1992, said the company’s foundation was built on his Christian faith.
“PHD stands for ‘Practicing Hospitality Daily’, and that is a reference to a Bible verse from Romans 12:13. The verse talks about sharing with others and treating them with hospitality. It is something we try to do in this industry, but it’s something you can do in any industry,” Hunt said.
Working with PHD Hotels in this development are Pinkerton and Laws Construction Company, Matt Butler, chief architect and civil engineer Brett Basden.
The construction is slated to be completed in summer 2017. Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller said he believes the hotel will serve the area well.
“It’ll help out with Auburn home football games and other events that are happening here in Opelika,” Fuller said. “I can say on behalf of myself and city and of Opelika that we are proud of the work PHD Hotels does and are excited to see the impact this hotel has on our community.”