‘Ultra-Accommodating’ Hotel Concept Goes Beyond ADA Accessible
A new hotel designed to provide accommodations for people of all ages and abilities is in the works and major chains including Hilton, Marriott and Hyatt are vying to have their name on the door.
The property, which planners say will serve as a model for the hospitality industry, will feature wider hallways, larger guest rooms, easy access to elevators and other modifications that exceed the standards required under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Staff will be trained in disability etiquette, how to assist with mobility devices and provide various accommodations ranging from hearing aid loops to sensory-sensitive lighting.
The forthcoming Morgan’s Hotel will be located in San Antonio near Morgan’s Wonderland, a one-of-a-kind theme park that’s fully accessible to people with disabilities. Since the theme park opened in 2010, Morgan’s has expanded to include a water park, a camp and other facilities that are inclusive to people of all abilities.
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“I am confident that this new hotel concept will remove barriers and tremendously enhance the lodging experience for everyone,” said Gordon Hartman, who was inspired by his daughter Morgan, who has disabilities, to found Morgan’s. “This will certainly be a hotel for everyone including those with disabilities who, going forward, will feel more included, valued and fulfilled.”
The hotel, which is expected to break ground later this year and open in 2026, will benefit from the expertise gained in developing other Morgan’s venues, according to those behind the project. Ideas were also generated through town halls and other efforts.
Hartman said he’s negotiating with multiple well-known names in the hotel industry to determine which brand the new property dubbed “ultra-accommodating” will be affiliated with. The location in San Antonio is expected to be the first — not the only one — developed under this concept.
“Morgan’s Hotel will do for the hospitality industry what our other entities have done — create spaces where everyone feels welcomed and included,” Hartman said.
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