On March 12, 2019, the Salina Journal reported on the presentation Guy Walker of Salina 2020 delivered at the March Lunch and Learn program sponsored by the Salina League of Women. Among the updates, Walker highlighted the new Homewood Suites by Hilton hotel and projected renovations and expansion of the Stiefel Theatre for the Performing Arts.
The 113-room hotel will feature a Mediterranean Kansas-City based restaurant concept, YaYa’s Euro Bistro, and a Starbuck’s coffee shop. Both fully accessible to the public, hotel guests, travelers or residents may choose outdoor dining options offered on the season patios when patronizing the businesses.
Renovations to the Stiefel span from new lighting and flooring, to improved stage rigging, as well as an enhanced guest experience that includes larger restrooms, an LED marquee and exterior will call window, among others.