Tocci breaks ground on $39.5 million Embassy Suites

Tocci Building Companies, a Boston-area construction manager and recognized leader in virtual design and construction solutions, has broken ground on an Embassy Suites Hotel strategically located within Connell Corporate Park. The 187,000 s/f development is an eight-story, 176-key hotel with a project cost totaling $39.5 million. The property is owned by Connell Hospitality, LLC, and will be operated by Davidson Hotels & Resorts. The project team includes architect PFVS Architecture, structural engineer Ehlert Bryan, MEP engineer TLC Engineering, consulting engineer Maser Consulting P.A., interior design firm Paradigm Design Group, and culinary design consultant Ricca Design. Tocci, known for its collaborative approach, will leverage decades of experience and utilize the latest Virtual Design and Construction (VDC) technologies to coordinate with all parties, manage the project, and ultimately deliver a state-of-the-art hotel. "With several design and layout changes throughout the initial planning stages, we worked closely with ownership and all project teams to ensure a successful start to kick off the development," commented John Tocci, Chief Enabling Officer at Tocci Building Companies. "We are confident that the new Embassy Suites will be a great addition to the popular Connell Corporate Park and provide a much needed hotel option to complement the variety of nearby, existing office buildings." The Berkeley Heights Embassy Suites will be a full-service, mixed-use hotel consisting of light gauge metal framing and structural, pre-cast planks. Floors one and two will host a variety of retail and amenity spaces including a coffee shop, fitness center, and multiple upscale common areas. In addition to state-of-the-art finishes and designs, the Embassy Suites will feature a glass canopy and a grand staircase in the lobby that will greet guests upon entering the hotel. The hotel's Connell Corporate Park location offers easy access to Newark, NJ and nearby Newark Liberty International Airport via I-78. Nestled within Union County, Berkeley Heights boasts a variety of public rail options, restaurant choices, and recreational activities at the nearby Watchung Reservation.