Big News for Fort Lauderdale!
New York-based G Worldwide plans to break ground on a 700,000 square-foot resort at an estimated cost of $80 million in Wilton Manors. The luxury resort, scheduled for completion in 2011, will bring over 500 new jobs to the area and is the first in a series of projects for the company catering to the LGBT community.

David Holzapfel, COO of G Worldwide, is enthusiastic about the project. “The reason we chose Wilton Manors for our first project is because we felt that South Florida is a wonderful location.” Holzapfel likes the community of Wilton Manors, stating that the company has already garnered a great deal of support for the project.

The resort will feature numerous lavish amenities. “We will have a fitness center, spa, nightclub, and a variety of dining options, all on property,” Holzapfel says. In addition, the resort also plans to offer a rooftop lounge and garden, as well as an art gallery and banquet center.

The company  plans to be the first-ever LGBT luxury-lifestyle resort and brand with a goal of amassing a collection of hotels, resorts, and vacation clubs specifically designed to fulfill the needs and desires of the LGBT traveler.

The Lauderdale property, located at 1224 NE 24^th Street, will only be a short walk from the Wilton Drive entertainment district, offering visitors an array of shopping and nightlife options.

G Resort  will feature a timeshare component, allowing visitors to purchase units in the building. “Timeshare brings a lot of value to the property, especially from the developer’s point of view,” states Holzapfel. “That component of the resort will only be about 20 percent of inventory, but will provide us with a steady stream of customers.”

The 172-unit, all-suite resort will feature four unique floor-plans. Most notable are the three-story, 3,000 square-foot penthouse suites, which promise to offer visitors superior luxury amenities.

The Wilton Manors property will surely impact local business. Reece Darham, managing director of Island City Health & Fitness, is excited about the project. “I believe it will be a fantastic opportunity for all LGBT businesses. This luxury hotel will bring a level of tourism that otherwise may not have come to Wilton Manors.”


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