By Gene Galin
Pittsboro, NC – The first Hilton property in Chatham County celebrated its grand opening on November 14, 2024, with a ribbon-cutting ceremony that drew community leaders, local residents, and hospitality industry professionals. The new Hampton Inn in Pittsboro represents not only a significant addition to the region’s hospitality offerings but also a symbol of the area’s growth and potential.
A Long-Awaited Addition to Chatham County
The grand opening of the Pittsboro Hampton Inn marked a historic milestone for Chatham County. As Jason, a representative of the Chatham Chamber of Commerce, noted during the ceremony, “This is a long time coming, and we’re thrilled to finally see it become a reality.” The addition of a modern hotel aligns with the county’s development trajectory, offering much-needed accommodations for visitors to the area.
The hotel, located near Mosaic at Chatham Park, is part of a broader initiative to make Pittsboro a destination for tourism, business, and community events. The property aims to meet the growing demand for quality lodging while fostering local economic growth.
Community-Centered Design and Local Artistry
One of the most remarkable features of the Pittsboro Hampton Inn is its emphasis on community and local artistry. Madison Silver, President of Malcolm Bryant Corporation, highlighted the unique design approach during the event, stating, “What we aimed to create was distinctly a Hampton but uniquely Pittsboro.”
The hotel incorporates local artwork, with contributions from the Chatham Arts Council and renowned local potter Mark Hewitt. A standout piece is a handcrafted wall installation by Hewitt, prominently displayed in the lobby. “This art reflects the spirit of Pittsboro and its people,” said Silver, emphasizing the importance of celebrating local talent in the project’s aesthetic.
Partnerships That Made It Possible
The successful completion of the hotel was a collaborative effort involving several key players. Malcolm Bryant Corporation, Sanford Contracting, and WithersRavenel played crucial roles in the design and construction of the hotel. Silver extended gratitude to Hilton representatives, particularly for their unwavering support and alignment with the vision for the project.
Local developers and community leaders, including Bubba Rawl and Tim Smith from Chatham Park, were also instrumental. Their vision for Mosaic—a pedestrian-friendly, walkable community—helped position the hotel as a central feature of Pittsboro’s development.
“We didn’t know Mosaic from Alcatraz,” joked Malcolm Bryant, “but the relationship we developed with Chatham Park has been incredible. This collaboration is a testament to what can happen when people come together with a shared purpose.”
What “Hamptonality” Brings to Pittsboro
The ribbon-cutting event wasn’t just about celebrating a building but also about the people who will operate it. Kendrick Allen, the hotel’s general manager, was praised for embodying what Hilton calls “Hamptonality”—a combination of compassion, respect, and hospitality. “You will see happy and surprised guests at every step of the way,” said Malcolm.
Allen’s leadership is expected to ensure the hotel becomes a cornerstone of the Pittsboro community. From providing exceptional service to cultivating local connections, the hotel’s staff is poised to deliver an unparalleled guest experience.
Economic and Cultural Impacts
The hotel’s opening is expected to have far-reaching economic implications for Pittsboro and Chatham County. By providing 90 rooms and a range of amenities, the Hampton Inn will cater to tourists, business travelers, and families attending local events or visiting loved ones. This new accommodation option is anticipated to attract larger events and sports tournaments to the area, boosting tourism and local spending.
The timing of the opening is ideal, as the holiday season approaches. According to Malcolm Bryant, early indicators suggest strong occupancy rates for Thanksgiving and Christmas. “It’s a great barometer that says people want to come and stay here in Pittsboro,” he said. This is a positive sign not only for the hotel but also for the broader community.
Sustainability and Modern Amenities
The Hampton Inn’s design includes modern amenities with a focus on sustainability. Guests will enjoy thoughtfully designed rooms, meeting spaces, and recreational facilities. Self-guided tours during the grand opening allowed attendees to explore the hotel’s rooms, which blend comfort with innovative features.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Pittsboro
The Pittsboro Hampton Inn symbolizes more than just a place to stay—it represents the future of Chatham County. As the county continues to grow, the hotel stands as a beacon of progress, collaboration, and community spirit.
Pittsboro Mayor Kyle Shipp summed up the sentiment, saying, “This is a beautiful addition to our town. It provides not just a place to stay but an opportunity to bring more events and activities to Pittsboro. We’re thrilled to see this vision become a reality.”
The grand opening highlight occured as community leaders and stakeholders gathered for the ceremonial ribbon cutting. As the crowd counted down, the ribbon was cut amid applause, marking the official opening of Pittsboro’s Hampton Inn hotel.
From its thoughtful design to its potential economic impact, the hotel is a promising addition to Chatham County. As Pittsboro continues to evolve, the Hampton Inn should play a role in shaping the town’s identity as a destination for visitors and a home for community pride.