La Quinta Inn and Suites has taken root in Jamestown. The hotel upgraded from its Best Western status, and a grand opening will be hosted for the renovated property Dec. 6 at 4 p.m. with a ribbon cutting. P-J photo by Eric Zavinski

A hotel presence at 200 W. Third St. is nothing new; however, the La Quinta Inn and Suites taking root at that location in Jamestown sure is.

Construction crews recently finished renovations at the former Best Western location Nov. 7, priming the new La Quinta Inn and Suites for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and grand opening to be hosted for the public Dec. 6 at 4 p.m.

Director of Operations Jim Burke said the year-long renovation process came about through the owners’ desire to upgrade the hotel’s brand and further capitalize on the local tourism successes such as the National Comedy Center, which opened in August.

“La Quinta was a nice fit for the Jamestown market,” Burke said. “It was a perfect fit for both of us.”

Owners Jay and Ram Patel partnered on the Best Western as the first hotel they owned together. Since 2005, the duo has owned the establishment. In response to recent lackluster business at the Best Western, it was decided that a brand upgrade would be the best way to bring in more customers.

Even during the busy summer with the Lucille Ball Comedy Festival in action and renovations continuing on the former Best Western, the hotel managed to stay at 85 percent occupancy during July. The hotel was always open for customers during renovations while local construction workers renovated different parts of the building at a time.

“It’s been rewarding,” said Heidi Cronin, general manager. “I haven’t had any dull moments.”

Amy Schumer even booked a room at the soon-to-be La Quinta when she performed for the comedy festival in August. In the same vein, La Quinta has partnered with the National Comedy Center and Northwest Arena to give customers special rates if they attend those attractions during their Jamestown stay.

The hotel has been refurbished from top to bottom, with a new exterior and upgraded furniture (courtesy of Artone LLC), appliances, fixtures and carpeting to be found in every room and lobby in the hotel. Other new attractions include a renovated pool, fitness center with multiple new exercise machines, a business center, improved breakfast display and more.

See Tuesday’s edition of The Post-Journal for more coverage.