The DoubleTree by Hilton in St. Paul has announced a sudden closure due to public safety concerns. Guests were informed to vacate the premises by noon on the day of the announcement. Reports suggest that ongoing immigration protests in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area have significantly impacted local hotels.
Reasons for Closure
The hotel cited “heightened public safety concerns in St. Paul” as the primary reason for its temporary closure. This decision comes amid a volatile atmosphere surrounding federal immigration operations. Demonstrations have intensified, putting hotels directly in the line of protest.
Impact of Protests
Demonstrations related to Operation Metro Surge have escalated since the fatal shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent on January 7. The unrest has led to incidents of vandalism, including attacks on vehicles parked at hotels, particularly those associated with federal personnel.
- Many hotels are perceived as housing federal agents.
- Direct protests have occurred near the Canopy Hotel.
- Recent days have seen multiple hotel closures in the Twin Cities.
Hotel Guest Options
In light of the closure, the DoubleTree hotel has offered guests two options for compensation. They can either receive a refund for their last night or pay for the first night at a new hotel at the same rate as their original booking. The hotel is assisting guests in finding alternative accommodations.
Long-term Outlook
Booking platforms show the DoubleTree’s status as closed through January 21, although this is subject to change. Other hotels in the Twin Cities are also reevaluating their operations amid safety concerns.
Wider Community Effects
The ramifications of the protests extend beyond hotels. Many restaurants in the area have closed due to concerns for employee safety. Reports indicate that around 80% of immigrant-owned businesses along key corridors in Minneapolis and St. Paul have shut down in the past week due to fear of unrest and immigration enforcement.
As tensions persist in the area, both local businesses and hotels continue to navigate the challenges posed by ongoing protests and heightened enforcement operations.
