City of Industry Resort Plans Upgrade

The operators of Pacific Palms Conference Resort, a golf retreat in the City of Industry, on Thursday announced plans for $17 million worth of recreational improvements, including a new spa.

The expansion, scheduled to break ground next month, will seek to capitalize on the growing use of spas as a standard amenity for resorts to attract well-heeled travelers and local visitors.

Majestic Realty Co., a City of Industry-based developer that took over operation of the 292-room hilltop hotel and conference center in 2000, is trying to position Pacific Palms as a regional draw for leisure travelers as well as a destination for business meetings and conferences.

“We aim to attract a more diverse customer base in 2006,” said Scott Huntsman, the resort’s general manager. “This project will enable us to bring the recreation level up to the same standard as the rest of the property.”

The expansion follows a $32-million makeover of the 650-acre property by Majestic, known for building low-rise business parks and retail centers. The 25-year-old resort is owned by the City of Industry.

In addition to the spa, Pacific Palms will add a restaurant, a bar, a golf pro shop, a golf staging area and improvements to its two 18-hole golf courses. A new 80,000-square-foot patio will house a lava fire pit, built-in barbecues and seating for up to 200 people.

The additions will include 90,000 square feet of interior space and 130,000 square feet of outdoor space. Parts of the project will be completed by next summer.