Invest in Our Economy July - September 2024 | Page 3

Luraco Care Chair Program : A New Standard in Wellness

Caravan Court Hotel Project Breaks Ground

Luraco , the only American manufacturer of massage chairs globally , is proud to introduce the Luraco Care Chair program . This initiative was born from a heartfelt desire to alleviate the stress faced by the emergency workforce worldwide . “ As a local Arlington-based manufacturer , our journey began with a focus on supporting our local emergency workers ,” said Mr . Nelson , a company representative .
As part of the program , Luraco has donated a massage chair to the Arlington Fire Department . The high-tech massage chairs are designed to provide relief and promote wellness among those who tirelessly serve our community . The impact of this program is already evident through the sincere testimonials from the Arlington 911 dispatch center , where the positive effects on their well-being have been significant .
Building on this local success , Luraco is now in discussions with the International Association of Fire Fighters and the Fraternal Order of Police to expand this initiative nationally . Their first priority remains addressing this critical need on a broader scale right here in Arlington . By doing so , they aim to set a precedent that can inspire communities across the country .
The Luraco Care Chair program is more than just a wellness initiative ; it is a cause that brings communities together . “ By supporting our emergency workforce , we are fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose around an important cause . As Arlington , the American Dream City , takes the lead in establishing this new standard of wellness , we envision other cities across America following suit . Together , we can create a healthier , more supportive environment for those who dedicate their lives to protecting and serving our communities ,” said Mr . Nelson .
Luraco looks forward to its continued investment in Arlington and strengthening relationships with city departments and other associated partner organizations . Luraco welcomes more participating sponsors for this special program opportunity . For more details about the Luraco Care Chair Program , visit www . LuracoCares . com
City and community leaders gathered on Aug . 14 to celebrate the groundbreaking of the Caravan Court Hotel redevelopment project , a partnership with Valencia Hotel Group , Division Hotel Management , LLC and the City of Arlington .
Formerly the site of the Caravan Motel property on the southeast corner of Collins and Division streets , the project will pay homage to the historic Bankhead Highway , including restoration and re-use of the iconic Caravan Motor Hotel sign . The 145-room upper upscale boutique hotel will feature a unique luxury retro-style ‘ motor court ’ concept and mid-century aesthetic .
“ There ’ s a history here that goes back decades . The reason this is so important is we will begin to cross-pollinate our Downtown and our Entertainment District , and bring those two wonderful districts together in a way that ’ s never been done before ,” said Mayor Jim Ross .
The total project cost is estimated at $ 45 million , with the City providing a $ 3 million grant to assist with demolition and site preparation with annual performance-based rebates equal to the amount of taxes ( City hotel occupancy tax , City sales tax and City property tax ) generated by the project for ten years .
The City will provide an annual grant of up to $ 1 million to support the development for 10 years , which may be reduced if hotel occupancy tax performs better than current base-year projections . There will be no Cityissued debt and no new or increased taxes . Demolition must be completed by September 30 , 2024 and the hotel must be complete by December 31 , 2026 .
The agreement states that Division Hotel Management , LLC will assist the City in improving the aesthetics and function of the auto-related land uses in the Division Street Corridor . These efforts may include improving appearances of businesses and public spaces along Division Street , and relocation and consolidation efforts to create a used auto sales business park or auto mall , among others .
“ Economic development isn ’ t a faucet , it ’ s a pump that requires creativity and deliberate effort ,” said Gus Garcia , director of economic development for the City of Arlington . “ This hotel will cater to the millions of visitors who flock to Arlington annually , generating significant economic benefits through increased hotel occupancy , a vibrant downtown , and enhanced sales and hospitality tax revenue .”
The Caravan Court Hotel project will also bolster efforts to change land use in the Division Street Corridor and increase opportunities for connections between downtown Arlington and the Entertainment District , which has been a City policy objective for over 20 years .
“ Caravan Court Hotel will help usher in a new era for the Division Street Corridor ,” said Lyndsay Mitchell , director of strategic initiatives for the City of Arlington .
“ The City has been working on strategic redevelopment in the corridor for over two decades and this is one of the most exciting catalytic projects to come along - stitching together connections between Downtown and the Entertainment District while paying respect to the rich history and mid-century aesthetic of the Corridor .”
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