Historic Hilton Palacio del Rio Introduces New Cutting-Edge Technology
Hotel Is First in San Antonio to Debut Groundbreaking Elevator System in Conjunction with $33 Million Renovation
SAN ANTONIO, TX - March 19, 2012 - Leading San Antonio hotel Hilton Palacio del Rio is pleased to announce the unveiling of its state-of-the-art elevator system using Personal Occupant Requirement Terminal (PORT) technology. Hilton Palacio del Rio joins an elite group of highly-esteemed international properties currently utilizing PORT technology, and is the first and only hotel to do so in San Antonio. Hotel staff and guests now interface with a sleek, LED touch-screen panel located on every floor. By simply communicating one's identity and destination, the PORT delivers the quickest possible route and a seamless journey within the 21-story hotel.
Meeting the modern demands for efficiency, safety and energy reduction, the intuitive new system provides unparalleled service and a breakthrough in productivity by adapting to the specific patterns of each user, streamlining traffic flow during peak periods and predicting the hotel's needs. In a hotel with many floors and multiple meetings spaces, the adaption of this technology is a breakthrough in productivity for business and leisure travelers.
“We are dedicated to surpassing our guests' evolving expectations by providing elevated service,” said Robert Thrailkill, general manager, Hilton Palacio del Rio. “The implementation of this progressive new technology establishes our storied hotel as a leading innovator in our community and in the overall hospitality industry.”
PORT technology also seamlessly communicates with the hotel's security control system. In case of an emergency situation or evacuation, the PORT provides clear, up-to-the-minute instructions on whether it is best to use the elevator or stairs. Addressing today's environmental challenges, the PORT system operates with low-energy features, and in times of lower use, the system automatically shifts into reduced-power standby or sleep modes.
Part of Hilton Palacio del Rio's $33 million extensive transformation includes the newly-completed $27 million guest room renovation. All 485 guest rooms in the 21-story Hilton Palacio del Rio have emerged with a sophisticated and modern style, while staying true to its South Texas setting. To satisfy the busy business traveler, upgrades in technology include high-speed wireless internet, connectivity centers, and 37” plasma HD televisions.
In addition to the five suites available at Hilton Palacio del Rio, the hotel debuted its brand new Presidential Suite which offers panoramic views of the city and features distinctly contemporary furniture complemented by unique artwork and a cool color scheme of rustic wood and earthy red tones.
The second phase of the renovation is set to begin July 2012 and will include a $4 million update on the hotel's 27,000 square feet of meeting and event space. Floor-to-ceiling windows will be installed in the Salon del Rey to allow maximum natural light. This phase also includes a $2 million investment in other improvements such as refreshing the Ibiza Restaurant and Patio Bar as well as the hotel lobby. These enhancements will bring an esthetic consistency throughout all of the public spaces in the hotel. The renovation is part of a three-year, $3 billion plan of significant property renovations currently underway across the global portfolio of Hilton Hotels & Resorts, the flagship brand of Hilton Worldwide.
About Hilton Palacio del Rio
Located on the famous River Walk in beautiful downtown San Antonio, Hilton Palacio del Rio is only two blocks from the world-famous Alamo, and not far from two PGA Tour courses, the San Antonio Zoo, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Sea World, the San Antonio Convention Center and the Alamodome. Hilton Palacio del Rio offers several dining options, flexible meeting space, a pool and fitness center and is the only hotel in downtown San Antonio that features a private balcony in every room. www.palaciodelrio.hilton.com
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