The Niagara Falls City Council (Ontario) has approved redevelopment of the historic Oakes Hotel and paved the way for a new hotel featuring two 58-storey towers. The Oakes Hotel, which has been a fixture near Horseshoe Falls since its original construction in 1797, will be demolished to make room for this iconic project proposed by Hennepin Realty Holdings Inc. and Hennepin’s View Inc..
The Oakes Hotel, initially known as the Niagara Hotel, has undergone several transformations over the centuries including a devastating fire that led to its reconstruction as the Pavilion Hotel. After operating under that name for decades, the hotel was rebuilt and reopened in 2005.
The new development will redefine the skyline of Niagara Falls with its modern design and extensive amenities. The proposed hotel will include a seven-storey podium, a six-storey parking garage, commercial space, and a total height reaching 60 storeys to accommodate roof features.
City officials indicated that while they cannot confirm if it will be the tallest hotel in Canada, it will certainly surpass the existing Hilton Niagara Falls which has held that title since the 1990s.
The new development is expected to feature 1,140 hotel suites and 126 residential units along with multi-purpose spaces. Located at 6546 Fallsview Blvd. and 6503-6519 Stanley Ave., the project will also necessitate the demolition of the Frontier BBQ and Smokehouse restaurant.
During the council meeting, a representative from the development team highlighted the potential economic benefits of the project and estimated the creation of up to 2,000 full-time and 500 part-time jobs once the hotel is completed. However, concerns were raised by council members and local residents regarding the feasibility of such a large-scale development and the risk of it remaining incomplete.
Councilwoman Mona Patel expressed the need for assurances that the demolition of the Oakes Hotel would lead to the construction of the new development. City staff reassured her that there are checks and balances in place including a sunset clause that requires a site plan agreement or draft plan of condominium approval within four years with a possible two-year extension.
Local residents also voiced apprehensions about the city’s history with incomplete skyscraper projects questioning whether the approval of such a large development was appropriate. In response, Rocky Vacca, representing the developers, emphasized their proven track record and cited previous successful projects in the city.
Overall, Council members praised the project and recognized the bittersweet nature of replacing the historic Oakes Hotel.
“It’s going to be a game changer for our city…when it’s built. It will change our skyline and the tourist industry for good,” said Councilman Patel. Coun. Mayor Jim Diodati also lauded the project calling it “the nicest, newest jewel in the crown of Niagara Falls.”
City Council Approves Iconic 58-Storey Development in Niagara Falls