Patrick Henry Opens Early, On Budget

Roanoke City Manager Chris Morrill cuts the ribbon.

Photographer Don Peterson captures members of City Council.

Patrick Henry addresses the crowd.

Ed Walker faces the media.

Katherine Fralin Walker (right, Ed's wife) and Anna Larson chat.

Citing "magnificent" cooperation from the City of Roanoke, outstanding craftsmen, exceptional professional staff and a wife who served as an inspiration, Roanoke developer Ed Walker opened the updated Patrick Henry Hotel this morning before a nearly full lobby.

Walker, who began the project 19 months ago, pronounced it "seven weeks early and on budget as he and a Patrick Henry (the patriot) actor welcomed an enthusiastic crowd."

The newest version of the 1920s-era hotel will have apartments, student housing and businesses located smack in the heart of Roanoke. Much of the space has already been rented and will be occupied soon.

(Dan Smith photos, story.)