The 98-room hotel will be located next to G.M. McCrossin Inc. along the Benner Pike near the /I-99 interchange between State College and Bellefonte.

“We are proud of our company’s growth and are excited to be breaking ground on our Tru by Hilton,” said Edward Tubbs, Chief Executive Officer, Hospitality Asset Management Company. “This property will be a fantastic addition to HAMCO’s portfolio in our home region of Centre County – a community that has been very supportive of hotel growth. Its prime location sets the stage for more exciting expansion opportunities in the Bellefonte area.”

Fritz Smith, President and CEO of The Happy Valley Adventure Bureau, said the hotel project is welcome news given that visitation to Happy Valley is on the rise, and weekend demand is at an all-time high.

“It is wonderful to see shovels in the ground for what will be another fantastic addition to our lodging options,” he said. “This location is the gateway to Bellefonte, which is on a promising trajectory. A hotel nearby will only help further raise the profile of that community and this part of the county.”

Smith also applauded HAMCO for moving forward with a new infrastructure project in what is still a challenging climate for major capital investments.

“This project shows confidence in Centre County’s strong visitation economy,” he said.

The Tru by Hilton will include complimentary breakfast, active lobby spaces and an expanded fitness center. The hotel will have an incredible vista over Happy Valley due to its elevated location along Benner Pike. Hospitality Asset Management Company will provide daily operational management and oversight for the property.

Joe Leahey, Vice President of G.M McCrossin, Inc., said the construction of the hotel is important to the success of its other projects, particularly the continued redevelopment of the Titan Energy Complex into a premiere event and convention space.

“G.M. McCrossin has been in operation in Centre County for more than 60 years and is heavily invested in Bellefonte and the surrounding area,” he said. “Having close access to a hotel will greatly enhance our ability to attract national and international clients, allowing the world to experience Bellefonte's unique charm and resources.

“This hotel is set to become a beacon, drawing both people and businesses to Bellefonte and benefiting the entire county,” Leahey continued, stressing that the project is a testament to HAMCO’s dedication to fostering economic growth and highlighting the beauty and potential of the region.

“We are pleased to welcome Tru by Hilton to the community,” said Greg Scott, President and CEO of the Chamber of Business & Industry of Centre County/Centre County Industrial Development Corporation. “Development projects like this one signal a thriving community, which is good news for job creation, and critical for business retention and attraction efforts. We are confident its presence will heighten the county’s profile as a premier destination while helping to advance economic prosperity in Centre County.”

Hospitality Asset Management Company, also known as Lion Country Lodging in the Happy Valley market, is the Preferred Hotel Partner of Penn State Athletics and a proud supporter of Centre County nonprofits.