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Published on January 23, 2025
Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City Hotel Set for Major Expansion Ahead of 2028 OlympicsSource: Google Street View

The Hilton Los Angeles/Universal City Hotel is gearing up for a notable expansion following approval by the L.A. City Council. With a unanimous vote, the council gave the green light to a project that includes a new 18-story tower, containing 395 guest rooms, aimed at bolstering the hotel's capacity in preparation for high-profile events like the 2028 Olympic Games, as reported by KTLA.

The council's vote also led to the adoption of zoning changes, height amendments, and permissions for both the sale of on-site alcohol and live entertainment. Sun Hill Properties Inc., the operator of the Hilton hotel, embarked on these plans in 2017 anticipating the need for augmented lodging due to an influx of tourism, with President and CEO Mark Davis stating that they "owe these additional rooms to the region," as per a statement obtained by the KTLA.

The new addition, as outlined by city planning documents and reported by The Eastsider LA, will complement the existing 24-story edifice located at 555 E. Universal Hollywood Drive. Plans suggest a sweep of amenities including a spa, three restaurants, two pools, and a meeting room alongside a three-level parking garage with the whole site boasting a total floor area of 696,609 square feet.

The project has rallied support from local unions and business chambers, notably from Paul Moreno, a member of Ironworkers Local 433, who emphasized that the construction would employ "local residents, veterans, apprentices, and folks who may need a second shot life," as stated by The Eastsider LA.