'A dream come true': Bedford, Lawrence County leaders celebrate opening of Hampton Inn

BEDFORD — City and county leaders celebrated the grand opening of Bedford's newest hotel, the Hampton Inn Wednesday.

With 88 guest rooms, indoor pool, meeting space and fitness center, the hotel brings much needed accommodations for travelers coming to Lawrence County for business and pleasure.

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"It's a dream come true to have another hotel. Our phone rings off the hook, 'Do you know where i can get a room?' and now we have 88 more rooms," said Tonya Chastain, executive director of Lawrence County Tourism. "We're very happy to have the Hilton brand in the county and look forward to working with you and your staff."

Chastain was one of several who gave remarks, including Bedford Mayor Sam Craig, Mitchell Clerk-treasurer Mark Bryant and Lawrence County Commissioner President Rodney Fish. 

Jim Dora Jr., president and CEO of General Hotels Corporation, developer of the hotel, thanked those in attendance.

"One of the things my dad taught me with our hotels is we always want to be a part of the community and we mean that," Dora said. "This hotel is really considered your hotel. We hope you'll visit it often and ask for any help we can give."

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Getting a hotel built during COVID was met with many challenges as supply chains were affected, Dora said.

"The team that worked to get the hotel open — and they have put in a ton of work — they deserve all the thanks," Dora said.

Challenges such as furnishing 88 rooms and only four of the eight trucks with those furnishings shows up. He said the team worked to resolve any and all issues.

Those in attendance were impressed with the hotel.

"We all know people are what drive innovation," said Rodney Fish, president of the Lawrence County Commissioners. "it's going to be a great addition for years to come."

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"We're thrilled for Lawrence County," said Mark Bryant, Michell clerk-treasurer. "With the expansion of Lehigh, hotel rooms and housing have been an extreme scarcity."

Craig thanked Dora and General Hotels for investing in Bedford. Following the ribbon-cutting, guests were treated to tours of the hotel.

The Hampton Inn is behind Rural King, just east of State Road 37. The hotel started welcoming guests Oct. 5.

Contact Times-Mail Staff Writer Carol Johnson at cjohnson@tmnews.com or 812-277-7252.