Hotel scene gets a boost

When Midamerica Hotels announced several months ago that it planned to raze the existing Holiday Inn on William Street near Interstate 55, there were reactions from people who have enjoyed the hotel's hospitality over the years, attended a meeting there or regularly ate at the hotel's restaurant.

But anyone who has stayed recently in a Holiday Inn Express -- like the one to be built at the same location -- also knows that its amenities will provide an upgrade for travelers spending the night, and nearby restaurants will offer more choices for dining out.

Yet another addition to the hotel scene in Cape Girardeau was announced just last week when Drury Inns Inc. of St. Louis said it planned to build a 180-room Drury Inn & Suites at the newest I-55 interchange at Highway 74.

Both Midamerica Hotels and Drury Inns are owned by Drury brothers. Jim Drury owns Midamerica, and Bob, Charles and Jerry Drury own Drury Inns.

Progress comes in many forms.

On the one hand, the old is making way for the new.

On the other hand, part of the prime area around the Highway 74 interchange is being developed, which will likely lead to more plans in the not-too-distant future.

Cape Girardeau offers a wide range of accommodations for visitors who may be on their way to other destinations or may be coming here for meetings or other events. It appears the city's hotel future is bright.