The Macon Mariott City Center is opening its doors today.

City officials hope the $37 million facility will attract more convention business to Middle Georgia.

For years convention planners have told local tourism officials the city needs a hotel adjacent to city-owned Wilson Convention Center and Macon Coliseum.

Atlanta-based Noble Investments built the 220-room, four star property. They operate fifteen other hotels in Georgia.

Noble will also take over management of the Wilson Convention Center, the Macon Coliseum, and the Macon City Auditorium.

City employees who work there will now get their paychecks from Noble.

The new hotel is also creating 60 additional jobs. Local politicians also hope the new property will spur development in a part of the city that's been declining for years.

Tags: GA, Macon, Macon Marriott City Center, Noble Investments