SALISBURY – The city’s newest hotel, Home2 Suites by Hilton, celebrated its grand opening Thursday afternoon at 1300 Jake Alexander Blvd. S.

The hotel offers 93 suites, Chris Ardolino, Chief Operating Officer of Narsi Properties, said the hotel is about 68,000 square feet.

“Every single room has a kitchenette, so you can actually prepare meals in your room,” Ardolino said. “It’s designed for an extended-stay guest in mind, whether you’re staying more than three to five, seven to 30, or even 90 to 180 nights. Think of it like a studio apartment that has all the amenities of a hotel room — free breakfast in the morning, convenient stations, workout centers, a swimming pool, an outdoor patio with gas grills, a meeting space and all of the things you can get used to at a hotel.”

Representatives of the Rowan County Chamber of Commerce and local officials attended the opening.

“This is so amazing,” said Nicole Holmes Matangira, chairwoman of the chamber. “This is such a blessing.”

Matangira recognized a number of people who she said made the grand opening possible, including James Meacham, CEO of the Rowan County Tourism Development Authority.

“I appreciate everyone coming out. The ultimate achievement belongs to James Meachum and his staff,” Matangira said.

Rowan County commissioners Chairman Greg Edds also welcomed Home2 Suites.

“We’re glad you’re here, and welcome to our community,” Edds said.

Guests were offered tours of the hotel after the ceremony.

Owned by Narsi Salisbury LLC and managed by Narsi Properties, Home2 Suites offers suites equipped with king and queen beds, full bathrooms, sleeper sofas, full-size refrigerators, dishwashers, silverware, toasters. dishwashers and microwaves. Rooms also offer pull-out desks and 49-inch TVs.

“The investment we made in Rowan County has provided a lot of jobs, a lot of opportunities for some great people. The folks in Rowan County have been wonderful,” Ardolino said. “It’s been a really positive experience.”

Natasha Lipscomb, vice president of student success services at Rowan-Cabarrus Community College, said Home2 Suites will be a great place to stay for leaders who work with the college, as it’s located within eyesight of the school’s entrance on Jake Alexander Boulevard.

“We’re really excited about the look it brings to this side of the community,” Lipscomb said.

According to a news release, Home2 Suites by Hilton is one of the fastest-growing brands in Hilton’s history, with 330 locations. The concept is designed with cost-conscious guests in mind, the company says.