BREAKING: GrandStay Hotel & Suites to be Built in Milbank

The upscale hotel brand GrandStay is coming to Milbank. The hotel group, known for its relaxing atmosphere, friendly staff, and luxurious amenities will break ground this April at the corner of 10th Avenue and Highway 15 – across from the Lantern Inn restaurant.

Mark Leddy, who along with his wife, Susan, is developing the hotel says, “The market demanded it. It’s a much needed investment for the community.”

The GrandStay brand was attractive to the Leddys because it allows the franchisee the flexibility to tailor the design to their area. The Leddys plan to infuse the space with the warmth of the Whetstone Valley by incorporating a soaring 15-foot ceiling in the entry, modern and comfortable furnishings, and local artwork.

The three-story, 46-room hotel plans to offer spacious rooms, elegant white bedding, Bath and Body Works toiletries, free wi-fi, and complimentary breakfast. Hot coffee and fresh pastries are always a welcome sight for travelers, but Leddy says he is even more excited they were able to design the breakfast area to take advantage of the lush green view to the east of the hotel.

The hotel also features four suites outfitted with full kitchens for extended stays, two fully accessible rooms, an indoor pool and recreation area, conference space, and plenty of parking for oversized vehicles and boats. That could prove important Leddy says as the hotel plans to open in mid-October just in time for pheasant season.

Although GrandStay Hotels is based in Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, and predominantly blankets the “Land of 10,00 Lakes”, the company’s portfolio also includes properties in Wisconsin, Iowa, North Dakota, and two in South Dakota – one in Tea and another in Rapid City. Jon Kennedy founder and president of GrandStay is not a stranger to Milbank, though. In 1985, he was instrumental, along with Earl Bohlen, in bringing the Super 8 to town.
Tru-Line Construction of Monticello, Minnesota will build the hotel. According to Leddy, they have served as the general contractor for several GrandStay projects, including the one which recently opened in Cannon Falls, MN. Leddy also says, “We hope to use as many local sub-contractors as possible and in as many areas of the project as possible.” He says he will be working with the general contractor on daily basis during the construction phase of the project. “It’s a very hands-on project!” The hotel also plans to hire a general manager, front desk reservationists, and a housekeeping team.

Keep up with The Valley Express for updates and progress reports.