By Barrett Newkirk, Herald Bulletin Staff Writer
Americans are traveling less because of the poor economy, but hotels at Exit 26 are doing OK thanks to new growth near the interchange and steady businesses coming from nearby events.
Ben Patel, manager of the Anderson Days Inn, said the hotel has seen roughly a 10 percent bump in business since the Hoosier Park casino opened in June.
The activity is helping the operation survive a recent rough spell.
“The lodging industry is taking a big hit, but it’s hurting businesses everywhere,” Patel said. “It’s going to take a bit of time to get back, but things here are not that bad.”
The exit offers easy access to Indianapolis, giving the hotels some business from out-of-town events, especially races at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway, said Neeraj Talati, who manages Quality Inn and Suites.
May through July is the hotel’s busiest season, Talati said.
For his hotel, he said any benefits from Hoosier Park have been slow to come, but he believes there’s more growth to come.
Slowly, ... we’ve seen a slight increase, three or four rooms more on a weekend night,” he said. “Things will continue to increase.”
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The following businesses are located near Exit 26:
A&W;, America’s Best Inn, Anderson/Madison County Visitors Center, Applewood Centre, Clarion Inn, Cracker Barrel, Culver’s, Days Inn, Deluxe Inn, Hampton Inn, Home Design Products, KFC, Marathon, Meijer, Menard’s, Montana Mike’s (under construction), Motel 6, Putt-putt Golf & Games, Quality Inn and Suites, Ricker’s/BP, Ryan’s, Tractor Supply Company, Waffle House, Walls Furniture
