Rock Hill, SC, January 9, 2026
A significant $30 million investment in Rock Hill’s hospitality sector is underway, with plans for two new upscale hotels near the Interstate 77 interchange. This development reflects a broader economic growth trend in the Midlands of South Carolina, promising job creation and enhanced local infrastructure. Expected to add around 50 jobs, the project will feature a Residence Inn by Marriott and another hotel brand still under discussion. Construction is anticipated to begin in the summer and take two years to complete.
Rock Hill Welcomes Dual-Hotel Investment
A significant private investment is set to boost Rock Hill’s hospitality sector, with plans for two new upscale hotels moving forward. This development reflects a broader pattern of economic growth across the Midlands and underscores the power of private enterprise in fostering community prosperity.
The project, involving a substantial $30 million investment, highlights the entrepreneurial spirit driving South Carolina’s economic landscape. It promises to enhance local infrastructure, create job opportunities, and attract more visitors to the region, benefiting existing businesses and residents alike.
Strategic Development Near I-77 Interchange
Rock Hill’s planning commission recently recommended approval to rezone 13.2 acres for the construction of two new hotels on Riverchase Boulevard. The City Council is expected to make the final decision on this rezoning request.
The proposed development includes two upscale hotels that will collectively offer 237 new rooms. One of the hotels is planned to be a Residence Inn by Marriott, with discussions underway for the brand of the second hotel.
This strategic location near the Interstate 77 interchange (Exit 82, where Celanese and Cherry roads meet) is critical. It positions the hotels to serve travelers, business visitors, and those attending events in the area. The site is also near several large apartment complexes and an Atrium Health medical facility, indicating a robust local ecosystem supporting such an investment.
Local Investment and Job Creation
The driving force behind this $30 million project is Primo Investments, a Fort Mill-based hotel ownership and management group with nearly five decades of experience. The company has a substantial presence across the Carolinas, including multiple properties in Rock Hill and Fort Mill.
This initiative is expected to create approximately 50 new jobs within the Rock Hill community. Such job creation is a testament to the positive impact of private investment on local employment, offering new opportunities for residents and contributing to the overall economic well-being of the area. Primo Investments emphasizes its local roots and pride in building within the region, illustrating how local entrepreneurs contribute significantly to economic development.
Construction for the hotels is anticipated to begin in the summer and is projected to take two years to complete. Both hotels will be four-story upscale establishments, combining for a total of 145,000 square feet.
Broader Economic Landscape and Community Impact
The development of these hotels aligns with Rock Hill’s broader economic growth ambitions. The area has seen significant investment in recent years, including a $106 million upgrade for the I-77 interchange at Exit 82, projected to begin in November 2025. This infrastructure improvement further enhances the appeal of the area for hospitality and other businesses.
Beyond this specific project, Rock Hill is also seeing other hospitality developments. For instance, The Lantern Hotel, a 56-room boutique hotel in downtown Rock Hill, is slated to open in the fall of 2026. This project has a unique mission of employing individuals with disabilities, building on a similar successful concept in Columbia, South Carolina. Such diverse developments showcase the varied approaches to entrepreneurial innovation in the region, focusing not only on economic return but also on community enrichment.
The surge in hotel developments, including those in Columbia, South Carolina, reflects strong developer confidence in the Midlands economic growth. Across South Carolina, the hospitality market is experiencing robust demand growth, with an ongoing inventory replacement cycle supporting this expansion, particularly in regions driven by manufacturing, healthcare, and higher education projects. This demonstrates a statewide environment conducive to private investment and strategic growth.
Fostering a Pro-Growth Environment
The progress of projects like the dual-hotel development in Rock Hill underscores the importance of a supportive regulatory environment. When local planning bodies and city councils work efficiently to review and endorse development proposals, it helps accelerate private sector investment. This streamlined process can reduce the barriers for entrepreneurs and established businesses looking to expand, leading to faster job creation and economic benefits for the community. Such milestones are not just numbers; they represent tangible outcomes for the community, encouraging further entrepreneurial innovation and investment in South Carolina.
The city has also considered zoning changes related to hotel usage, aiming to address issues like increased police calls and the misuse of temporary housing for permanent residences. Proposed regulations include limiting maximum stays and requiring new hotels to implement security measures such as interior-facing doors and cameras.
Looking Ahead: A Strong Future for Midlands Economic Growth
As Rock Hill continues to attract significant private investment and demonstrate a proactive approach to development, its success serves as a positive indicator for the broader Midlands economic growth. The commitment of local businesses, combined with thoughtful planning and a favorable business climate, lays a strong foundation for sustained prosperity. The addition of new upscale accommodations, driven by innovative developers like Primo Investments, will undoubtedly enhance the region’s appeal for both visitors and new businesses, contributing to a vibrant economy for years to come.
We encourage our readers to stay engaged with these exciting developments and to continue supporting the local businesses that are the backbone of our communities in Columbia SC and across South Carolina.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the dual-hotel project in Rock Hill, SC?
The dual-hotel project involves the planned construction of two new upscale hotels on 13.2 acres on Riverchase Boulevard in Rock Hill, South Carolina. These hotels will collectively offer 237 rooms.
Who is the developer behind this project?
The developer for this project is Primo Investments, a Fort Mill-based hotel ownership and management group with nearly five decades of experience.
What is the estimated investment for the dual-hotel project?
The estimated investment for the dual-hotel project in Rock Hill is $30 million.
How many jobs are expected to be created by this development?
This development is expected to create approximately 50 new jobs.
When is construction expected to begin and end?
Construction is anticipated to begin in the summer and is projected to take two years to complete.
What brands will the new hotels be?
One of the hotels is planned to be a Residence Inn by Marriott, with the brand of the second hotel still under discussion.
What is the significance of the project’s location?
The hotels will be strategically located near the Interstate 77 interchange (Exit 82), close to major roads, apartment complexes, and an Atrium Health medical facility, enhancing accessibility and business opportunities.
What other hotel developments are happening in Rock Hill?
Another notable development is The Lantern Hotel, a 56-room boutique hotel in downtown Rock Hill, set to open in the fall of 2026, which aims to employ individuals with disabilities.
How is this project indicative of broader economic trends in South Carolina?
The project reflects a broader trend of strong developer confidence and robust demand growth in South Carolina’s hospitality market, supported by regional economic growth drivers such as manufacturing, healthcare, and higher education projects.
Key Features of the Rock Hill Dual-Hotel Project
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Project Location | Riverchase Boulevard, Rock Hill, SC (near I-77 Exit 82) |
| Acreage | 13.2 acres |
| Number of Hotels | Two new upscale hotels |
| Total Rooms | 237 rooms |
| Confirmed Hotel Brand | One Residence Inn by Marriott |
| Developer | Primo Investments (Fort Mill-based) |
| Estimated Investment | $30 million |
| Expected Job Creation | Approximately 50 jobs |
| Construction Timeline | Start summer, completion within two years |
| Total Square Footage | 145,000 square feet |
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