Amarillo is set to welcome a new Hampton Inn downtown after the city’s Board of Review for Landmarks, Historic Districts, and Downtown Designs approved the project in a narrow 3-2 vote. The decision came during a meeting focused on a proposed five-story hotel located at the intersection of Southeast 10th Avenue and Buchanan.
The board’s discussion centered on several variances requested by the hotel developers. These included using alternative tree species, adjusting the placement of the building on the site, and positioning hotel parking at the front of the building. The latter request aligns with Hilton’s standard requirement for front-facing parking but conflicts with the city’s current zoning rules, which encourage structures to be close to the street to maintain a walkable downtown environment.
According to project engineers and attorneys, the current design represents nearly the 30th iteration aimed at meeting the city’s zoning and design requirements. The developers emphasized that the hotel will cater to families while contributing to the downtown experience.
Dicussions highlighted a concern about preserving pedestrian accessibility. Downtown zoning typically prioritizes buildings near the street to encourage foot traffic and support local businesses. While the hotel’s parking layout presented a challenge, board members noted that occasional variances are sometimes necessary for large projects with unique site requirements.
The approval is part of a broader effort to bring more visitors into the downtown area, boosting economic activity for existing shops and restaurants. The Hampton Inn is expected to complement ongoing revitalization efforts and provide a family-friendly lodging option for both residents and tourists. With construction set to move forward, city officials and business owners anticipate that the hotel will become a valuable addition to Amarillo’s growing downtown district.
