Newton Marriott Sold

The Marriott on Commonwealth Avenue in Newton was recently given a Special Permit by the Board of Aldermen to build an expanded ballroom (actually, they built first, then got the permit later, but that's another story). Apparently, the expansion and accompanying renovation added enough value to make the hotel worth $77.25 million, the amount it was sold for to Chesapeake Lodging Trust, according to a press release issued yesterday.

I have many fond memories of this hotel, which has been a Newton institution for generations. In recent years, it has been the go-to location for fundraising events for non-profits and former Mayor Ted Mann used to have his annual party there every year.