Aspen City council will take a first look at an ordinance to merge the vacant newspaper office and Hotel Jerome properties… setting the stage for the expansion of the iconic landmark.
The plan calls for the majority of the Aspen Times building to be demolished and nine new bedrooms to be added to the hotel. The plans call for several code variances - the new ceilings would be one foot higher than permitted and, and the Jerome’s average room size would grow to 590 square feet, well above the allowed 500. Planning staff recommends approval of the project, saying the four two-bedroom suites would diversify the Jerome’s offerings.
Both lots are designated Historic Landmarks. The facade of the Aspen Times building would remain in tact and zoned for commercial use. The sidewalk in front of the Hotel Jerome would be reduced to its original width, allowing for more room for guest drop-off.
