Atmore, AL, April 04, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA), the economic development arm of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians has invested more than $170M into the State of Alabama during the first quarter of this year.   

The Fairfield Inn and Suites and Holiday Inn Express hotels in Atmore were both integrated and brought into CIEDA’s portfolio at the beginning of 2019.   These hotel properties are in the process being remodeled and brought up to current brand standards.   They are the seventh and eighth hotels to be added to the CIEDA portfolio of hotels, and will be a great addition to the portfolio.  The total investment of these properties is $18M, and are located off Hwy. 21 and Interstate 65 and are in close proximity to Wind Creek Casino Atmore. 

The new AC Hotel by Marriott in Huntsville that opened on Monday March 25 th was another major investment with a project cost totaling $31M.   This property features 120 rooms and is the second Huntsville hotel investment for CIEDA.   To learn more about the AC Hotel in Huntsville visit https://achotels.marriott.com/hotels/ac-hotel-huntsville

OWA, in Foley Alabama’s Gulf Coast region, is a world-class, award-winning entertainment destination that has recently announced significant investments into its ever-expanding attractions line up. Released during the first quarter of 2019, these investments total more than $121.3M and will be developed over the next two years.  While the resort already boasts an amusement park with 22-attractions, 150-room Marriott TownePlace suites, and more than 14 shopping, dining, and live entertainment options. CIEDA’s investments will top $350 million+ committed to the destinations advancements, which include the newest additions in Phase II:

Cody Williamson, CIEDA President/CEO commented, “We are excited to be able to invest heavily in our home State.   With regard to tourism, Alabama has much to offer.  Regardless if visitors come to Alabama to see our amazing amusement park and shops at OWA, our pristine beaches or the beauty of downtown Huntsville, we want to make sure they leave with a sense of what Alabama hospitality is all about.   We know that growing Alabama’s hospitality industry is a great way to facilitate more tourism, which in turn drives more jobs and increased growth for our State.  In this way, we understand that investing in Alabama is a win-win for everyone.

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About the Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority Working as the economic development arm of the Poarch Band of Creek Indians, Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA) oversees the non-gaming enterprises owned by the Tribe. CIEDA actively supports each of its business in achieving their specific business goals to grow and maintain economic sustainability as put forth by the CIEDA Board of Directors and Tribal Council.

Jen Chism Creek Indian Enterprises Development Authority (CIEDA) (251) 446-4508 jchism@pcicie.com