Scott Enterprises is moving forward with plans for a new hotel along Erie’s bayfront, a project the company says will help expand what the waterfront can offer both visitors and residents.
Nick Scott Jr., vice president of Scott Enterprises, said the additional rooms would strengthen the region’s ability to attract major events.
“Adding these rooms to the market will allow the convention center to bring even bigger conferences to the market, which is a big economic boost for our community,” Scott said.
As the proposal advances, city leaders will hold a public hearing to gather feedback on the project — including comments on economic opportunities, environmental impacts and how the development fits into the broader vision for the bayfront.
Among the groups weighing in is the Erie Bird Observatory, which is focused on how the hotel could affect migratory bird patterns along Lake Erie.
“Scott Enterprises is planning on building a new hotel along the bayfront, and so we are concerned with the migratory birds that migrate along Lake Erie, especially during the fall and spring migrations,” said Holley Short, the organization’s executive director.
Short said small design choices can make a significant difference, such as using bird‑safe glass, reducing unnecessary nighttime lighting and being intentional about landscaping near buildings.
“What we’re really hoping for is that if and when this hotel is built, that they’re able to set the standard and incorporate some of these bird‑safe measures while they’re building,” she said.
Developers say they are listening to those concerns and point to their existing bayfront hotel, where they say bird strikes have not been an issue.
“We have seen none of that,” Scott said. “We don’t have any bird challenges; we don’t have any birds that are hitting the windows.”
As the project moves through the city’s approval process, officials say public input will play a key role in shaping the discussion and determining next steps.
The public hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. today in the City Council Chambers, where residents, organizations and developers will have the opportunity to speak. City leaders will consider all feedback as the proposal continues through review.