Treetops Resort in Gaylord today announced the renovation of its 190 hotel rooms will be completed in May, while updates to the common areas, a new lobby with food and beverage service, and exterior improvements will be done by Labor Day.
In turn, the resort, which offers 81 holes among five courses designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Tom Fazio, and Rick Smith, is planning to sell residential lots next year. More than 20 years ago, Treetops sold 41 condominiums and 12 lots, though it hasn’t actively offered lot sales since 2000.
“With all of the improvements we are making, it was time to look at selling some of our land for residential uses,” says Barry Owens, general manager of Treetops Resort. “We have 2,400 acres overall. In addition, we’re going to actively pursue group business among corporations, associations, government, and travel groups. We are at the center of Michigan, so the logistics for our guests are ideal.”
Last year, Treetops secured a $4.5 million USDA loan to fund the improvements, and worked with North Avenue Capital and Centennial Bank to secure the loan. The USDA loan is designated for capital projects in rural areas. It also assists with job retention — Treetops has 170 fulltime equivalent positions.
“Each hotel room was gutted and we added all new materials to the rooms and the bathrooms, as well as new furniture,” Owens says. “That will be completed in the middle of May. Over the summer, we’ll complete the common areas and finish off the new roofs, insulation, HVAC equipment, and painting. It will be a like a brand-new resort when we’re done.”
In addition to its Sports Bar, Treetops will offer a small gathering place next to the lobby with room for up to 30 people. The room will offer food and beverage service for breakfast and dinner.
The resort also offers the Treetops Golf Academy, which provides video analysis and simulator rounds within an indoor hitting environment. During the winter, Treetops offers 23 ski runs.
