Data shows that from 1996-2021, the Hudson Valley region lost a net total of 146,763 people to out migration, which calculates out to 5% of the Hudson Valley’s population.
Elected officials, seeking to appease vocal constituents, frequently uphold restrictive zoning laws that favor single-family residences over more diverse housing options.
In 2023, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection investigated 617 complaints and returned $66,000 to homeowners.
SPRING VALLEY—Rockland County Executive Ed Day announced on Sept. 9 the first new hotel to open in the county in seven years—The Element by Westin here.
The Element by Westin is located at 90 Spring Valley Marketplace and has already started taking reservations for its 87-room inventory ahead of a soft opening scheduled for today (Sept. 10).
“The new hotel offers another great reason for travelers to get off the New York State Thruway and stay in Rockland. This new Element will help energize the revamped Spring Valley Marketplace and Rockland’s economy,” said Rockland County Executive Day.
The project, which took 36 months to complete and is expected to create 20-plus jobs, represents a significant private investment, and provides a boost to one of Rockland’s core economic sectors—Hospitality & Tourism. Statewide direct visitor spending accounted for $114.7 billion in 2019, a growth of $6 billion year over year, and tourism remains the state’s third largest industry, supporting close to a million jobs, county officials noted.
“This project is critically important now as it will help with the recovery of the local economy during and after the COVID-19 crisis. The fact that they are here is recognition of the strength of Rockland’s business market and demographics,” stated Economic Development & Tourism Director Jeremy Schulman.
The county’s newest accommodation is one of only 85 Element locations worldwide, and features modern, apartment-style rooms with kitchenettes, a fitness center with an indoor heated pool, hot breakfast buffet and sleek lobby bar.
“We are excited to be opening in Rockland County, especially during these uncertain times,” said Parakh Dani of SMG Hotels. “We believe Rockland is going to be a good fit and look forward to welcoming business travelers and tourists this fall.”
“Congratulations on your opening during this period; it’s a tremendous accomplishment. We hope you became a big draw in the county,” added Roger Scheiber, vice president of development for the Rockland Business Association who also coordinates its Hospitality & Tourism Alliance.
The county assisted the Element management team with NY Forward guideline compliance and issued a Rockland County Certificate of Affirmation to demonstrate it is not only opening but doing so safely. A grand opening for the new hotel is scheduled sometime next month.
Data shows that from 1996-2021, the Hudson Valley region lost a net total of 146,763 people to out migration, which calculates out to 5% of the Hudson Valley’s population.
In 2023, the Rockland County Office of Consumer Protection investigated 617 complaints and returned $66,000 to homeowners.
Located at 23 Mulberry St. in the Hollow neighborhood of South Yonkers, the $48 million, four-story building has 60 energy-efficient, affordable apartments for seniors.
“Today marks a significant milestone on the path to ensuring the success of our nation’s most vital infrastructure project,” said New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.
Receive original business news about real estate and the REALTORS® who serve the lower Hudson Valley, delivered straight to your inbox. No credit card required.
