A ribbon cutting ceremony was held Monday, October 7, 2013 at the new Holiday Inn Eau Claire South and Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse near the intersection of Hwy 94 and US 53.  Governor Scott Walker addressed the crowd thanking developers and investors for their work on this project which brings almost 150 new jobs to the City of Eau Claire.  Governor Walker and Visit Eau Claire Executive Director Linda John both spoke of the importance the 90,000 sq. ft. 130-room hotel brings for the tourism industry.  Other speakers included Dick Larson of Larson Companies, Tim Olson of Royal Construction, and Council Member Dave Duax. 

The ribbon cutting was followed by lunch provided by Johnny’s Italian Steakhouse and tours of the hotel facilities and rooms.